Fernando Cruz's Season Ends as Yankees Move Him to 60-Day IL
Reliever's playoff hopes are dashed after a partially torn UCL diagnosis, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
The New York Yankees have transferred relief pitcher Fernando Cruz to the 60-day injured list, effectively ending his season and any chance of pitching in the postseason. The move comes after Cruz was attempting to return from a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL).
Cruz, 36, had expressed hope earlier in the week that he could avoid surgery and potentially become an option for the Yankees if they advanced in the playoffs. He was scheduled to throw a second bullpen session on Thursday, but the transfer to the 60-day IL signifies a definitive end to his playing time for the year.
The veteran reliever had become a significant contributor to the Yankees' bullpen over the past two seasons. However, his effectiveness waned this summer as he pitched through elbow discomfort. Imaging tests in late August revealed the partial tear in his UCL, an injury that typically necessitates Tommy John surgery.
Despite the diagnosis, Cruz had been vocal about his determination to avoid surgery, stating, “I’m not going to accept that — I’m not going to say I have a partial tear. I’m going to go through it. I’m gonna beat this.”
The roster spot created by moving Cruz to the 60-day IL was filled by Alexander Cornielle, who was promoted to pitch in the nightcap of Friday's doubleheader. This transaction ensures that Cruz will not be available for the Yankees' playoff run.