From New York Post · · 1m 40s
Yankees' Weathers races clock to return for October
Left-hander threw his first bullpen since forearm injury, aiming for playoff roster spot with limited time to prepare.
In brief
Left-hander threw his first bullpen since forearm injury, aiming for playoff roster spot with limited time to prepare. Ryan Weathers is pushing to return from a forearm injury before the playoffs, potentially joining the Yankees bullpen after just one live batting practice session. Originally reported by New York Post.
Weathers throws first bullpen session
The Yankees lefty threw 15 pitches at Target Field, mixing all his offerings. He came out feeling good after being sidelined with a left forearm flexor strain.
Velocity higher than expected
Weathers hit 87-90 mph, which he said was firmer than his usual midweek bullpens. All metrics looked good, and he's now focused on stacking reps.
“Probably a little firmer [velocity] than I wanted it to be, honestly, was like 87-90 [mph] today”
No rehab assignment available
With the minor league season ending Sunday, Weathers won't get a rehab stint. He's trying to return after facing hitters just once in live batting practice.
Aiming for regular season action
Weathers wants to pitch in at least one regular-season game before the playoffs to get his feet under him. He has prior relief experience to lean on.
“I know I got one inning, [so] go out there and let your stuff rip”
Yankees need another power lefty
If healthy, Weathers would join Brent Headrick and Tim Hill as lefty options. Headrick's velocity has dropped with heavy use, while Hill has allowed more homers than usual.
Schmidt activated for Wednesday
Clarke Schmidt will join the bullpen for the series finale, his first big league game in over 14 months after Tommy John surgery last July.
Judge gets day off Tuesday
Aaron Judge rested after four straight games as he continues his comeback from a right rib stress fracture. He should be essentially full go after this.
The headline
Ryan Weathers is pushing to return from a forearm injury before the playoffs, potentially joining the Yankees bullpen after just one live batting practice session.
