The New York Yankees' undefeated streak came to an end with a narrow 2-1 loss to the Seattle Mariners, thanks to a clutch home run by Cal Raleigh. But Yankees fans, don't hit the panic button just yet. There's promising news on the horizon for Aaron Boone's squad.
Yankees insider Bryan Hoch has shared some encouraging updates on key players making their way back from injuries. Starting pitchers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon are edging closer to rejoining the rotation.
Rodon recently threw 50 pitches in live batting practice, and Cole is set to do the same in the coming days. Meanwhile, Anthony Volpe is progressing well in his recovery from shoulder surgery, having moved from hitting off the Trajekt machine to preparing for live at-bats soon.
Even without Volpe, the Yankees have managed to hold their own, thanks in part to Jose Caballero's solid defensive performances. However, Caballero doesn't quite bring the same offensive potential to the table as Volpe.
If Volpe's live batting practice goes smoothly on Wednesday, a rehab assignment is likely next, putting him on track for a return to the big leagues. Last season, Volpe struggled with a .212/.22/.391 slash line, hitting 19 homers and driving in 72 runs, while also stealing 18 bases. It's worth noting he played much of the season with a partially torn labrum, which could have impacted his performance.
Once hailed as Derek Jeter's successor at shortstop, Volpe faces high expectations. The pressure is on to show that with time and recovery, he can fulfill his potential and become a cornerstone for the Yankees.