Max Fried is scheduled to throw a simulated game on Sunday, marking another significant step in his recovery from a left elbow bone bruise that has kept him sidelined since mid-May. While Fried is encouraged by his progress, he is still expected to be approximately one month away from rejoining a Yankees rotation that has experienced instability.
Fried and the Yankees organization are optimistic about his recovery. Fried has reported feeling "completely normal" and healthy after his recent live batting practice sessions. He has also implemented mechanical adjustments that he believes will help prevent the recurrence of his injury. "I would love to be able to snap my fingers and be back out there, but as a starting pitcher, it takes time to build up," Fried said. "I’ll get back hopefully soon."
The Yankees' need for Fried's return has been amplified by the recent elbow inflammation affecting pitcher Carlos Rodón. Fried is currently focused on increasing his pitch count to build stamina.
Following a two-inning, 28-pitch simulated game on June 30, 2026, Fried is expected to throw around 35 pitches over two innings on Sunday. If this outing is successful, the team may consider a minor league rehabilitation start. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that discussions will take place over the coming weeks regarding the appropriate pitch count for Fried's return, with potential thresholds around 60 to 80 pitches.
"He looks and feels really good. He looks like Max Fried," Boone commented. He anticipates Fried could realistically be back in "a few weeks."
Fried acknowledged the delicate nature of his injury, stating, "It’s one of those injuries you have to be really careful with. If you push it too fast, you risk turning it into some sort of break or fracture." He also noted that he had "really felt off mechanically most of the year" and is now focused on achieving better balance and timing in his mechanics.
The Yankees have been anticipating the full health of their starting rotation throughout the season. In other team news, Trent Grisham and Ryan McMahon have returned from the injured list, leading to discussions about Anthony Volpe's lineup placement versus that of José Caballero. Volpe was in the starting lineup on Saturday, with Boone stating, "Both guys deserve to play."
Additionally, manager Aaron Boone addressed the decision to option outfielder Spencer Jones to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, making room for Brendan Beck's spot start. Boone suggested that Jones would benefit from consistent playing time in the minors and that the team prefers the defensive versatility and right-handed bat of Max Schuemann, who had a strong performance on Saturday.
Grisham was in the lineup at designated hitter despite an initial plan for him to have a day off, as the Twins switched their planned starting pitcher to a right-hander. Grisham went 0-for-2 before being pinch-hit for by Paul Goldschmidt in the sixth inning. Goldschmidt extended his hitless streak to 0-for-21 after flying out with the bases loaded. The Yankees pitching staff allowed a season-high six home runs in the game. The team wore Fourth of July-themed uniforms and hats, and home plate umpire James Hoye had a challenging day with several calls being overturned via ABS.