New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone shared his enthusiasm for LeBron James's decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers. Boone, who has been a fan of the 76ers since his childhood in Philadelphia, expressed his interest in watching the team with James on board.
"Looks like they got a pretty good starting five in the mix," Boone said with a grin before the Yankees opened a series against the Phillies. "The East is getting interesting."
James is reportedly signing a two-year, $8 million deal with the 76ers at the age of 41. Boone, while managing in New York and having connections with the Knicks personnel, remained diplomatic when asked about his allegiance between the two teams. "The Knicks are the champs," he stated, acknowledging their current status, before adding, "But you bring Jaylen Brown in and LeBron, it’s two pretty good pieces I’d say. I’ll be watching with interest, I’m sure, this winter."
Boone's childhood in Philadelphia was influenced by his father, Bob Boone, who played for the Phillies. This connection has maintained his affinity for Philadelphia sports teams.
In other team news, pitcher Carlos Rodón is scheduled to throw a "two-up" bullpen session on Saturday, which involves throwing approximately 35 pitches in sets. If successful, he is expected to face hitters next week. Manager Boone indicated that Rodón will likely require a rehab assignment before returning to the rotation. Clarke Schmidt is also progressing and is set to face hitters for a second time on Sunday as he works toward a potential return this season following Tommy John surgery. Luis Gil has advanced to facing hitters at the team's player development complex. Additionally, Dax Kilby, the Yankees' first-round draft pick from the previous summer, has been activated from the injured list at Single-A Tampa after recovering from a hamstring injury.