Max Fried, the 32-year-old left-hander, is set to make his first Minor League rehab start for the Yankees' Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre team on Friday. This marks a significant step in his recovery from a bone bruise in his pitching elbow, which has sidelined him since May 13. The Yankees' manager, Aaron Boone, is optimistic about Fried's progress, indicating that he will make at least two Minor League starts, with the first one on Friday having a pitch count set for the low 50s.
Boone's statement, "He will go again in five days [on July 22] and ramp up from there," suggests a careful and measured approach to Fried's return. The team will closely monitor his performance and decide whether he's ready to rejoin the Major League roster. This cautious strategy is understandable, given Fried's recent history of elbow issues and the team's desire to ensure his long-term health and effectiveness.
The three-time All-Star has had a solid season so far with the Yankees, boasting a 4-3 record and a 3.21 ERA in 10 starts. His performance this season, coupled with his impressive 2024 campaign where he led the Major League with 19 wins and a 2.86 ERA, makes him a valuable asset to the team. However, the recent injury has been a concern, especially considering his new eight-year, $218 million contract, which highlights the importance of his recovery and return to full health.
In other injury updates, Boone mentioned that Carlos Rodón, who has been dealing with left elbow inflammation, threw 10 pitches from the mound on Thursday. Giancarlo Stanton, recovering from a right calf strain, has resumed outdoor running, indicating a positive step in his rehabilitation. Clarke Schmidt, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, is set to face hitters for the first time on Saturday, marking another significant milestone in his recovery process.
The Yankees' medical staff and management are taking a methodical approach to these players' returns, ensuring that they are fully recovered and ready to perform at their best. This cautious strategy is a testament to the organization's commitment to player health and long-term success, especially with the high-profile contracts of Fried and others.
As the season progresses, the focus on player health and rehabilitation will remain a critical aspect of the Yankees' strategy, influencing their performance and overall success in the competitive MLB landscape.
