Nestor Cortes Braces for World Series Appearance Despite Injury Risks

Nestor Cortes, the New York Yankees pitcher, is fully aware of the potential long-term threats to his career if he chooses to take to the mound in the World Series just a month after a flexor strain diagnosis. Such an injury often signals a more severe elbow problem on the horizon. Despite this, Cortes is prepared to risk his future free agency millions for a chance to participate in the World Series Game 1 against the Los Angeles Dodgers this Friday.

Understanding the Risks

Cortes, along with team officials, trainers, representatives, and family members, has meticulously weighed the consequences of his decision. “We have considered the potential fallout,” Cortes remarked, “but if I can secure a championship ring and then take a year off from baseball, I am willing to accept that trade-off.”

It seemed improbable for Cortes to return to the pitch in 2024 after he was sidelined with the injury less than four weeks ago. The Yankees would have to advance to the World Series to allow him sufficient recovery time, yet even then, the odds were stacked against him.

A Determined Comeback

Cortes, however, was not deterred. After a ten-day break and a PRP injection, he started his journey back. Beginning with throwing at distances of 60 feet, progressing to 90 feet, and then 120 feet, he eventually made his way back to the mound. On Tuesday, he successfully completed a 28-pitch live bullpen session at Yankee Stadium, facing hitters such as Oswaldo Cabrera and Austin Wells.

As long as he doesn’t experience any unusual discomfort when he wakes up on Wednesday, he anticipates being included in the Yankees’ World Series roster. “It’s as optimal as it could be,” Cortes admitted. “I believe that once the adrenaline kicks in on baseball’s grandest stage, I’ll be up to the task.”

Team Management’s Perspective

Aaron Boone, the Yankees manager, stated on Monday that there was a “high likelihood” of Cortes making the roster. The team is contemplating fielding 13 pitchers and 13 position players for the World Series, a slight shift from the AL Championship Series.

Cortes’ last performance on the pitch was on September 18th. A week later, he was pulled from a scheduled start and placed on the injured list, marking the end of his regular season. Having started almost the entire season (30 out of 31 appearances), Cortes is set to pitch from the Yankees’ bullpen during the World Series, ready to deliver “20 to 30 pitches.”

Looking Ahead to the World Series

The Yankees have previously relied on two left-handed relievers, Tim Hill and Tim Mayza, for their initial two playoff series. The trio, including Cortes if he makes the roster, will face the daunting task of silencing the Dodgers’ formidable left-handed hitters, featuring the likes of Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, and the expected NL MVP, Shohei Ohtani.

“I’ll have to throw everything but the kitchen sink at him,” Cortes said of Ohtani, indicating his fierce determination not only for Ohtani but for all the left-handers in the Dodgers’ lineup.