New York Yankees place pitcher Gerrit Cole on 15-day injured list
The New York Yankees have placed ace pitcher Gerrit Cole on the 15-day injured list ahead of their season opener against the San Francisco Giants, avoiding a significantly longer absence.
If the 35-year-old had been moved to the 60-day injured list, he would have been ineligible to pitch in a major league game until late May.
The veteran right-hander is continuing his rehabilitation after undergoing Tommy John surgery with renowned physician Dr Neal ElAttrache in March of last year.
He recently made two encouraging spring training starts, taking to the mound on 18 March and again this past Tuesday.
Rodon and Volpe begin season on sidelines
The Bronx Bombers also finalised several other crucial roster moves on Tuesday to comply with the strict 26-man active player limit.
Starting pitcher Carlos Rodon was placed on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to 22 March, as he continues his recovery from elbow surgery.
Meanwhile, highly rated shortstop Anthony Volpe begins the campaign on the 10-day injured list following left shoulder surgery last October.
Gil demoted while Grichuk secures major league deal
In a notable rotation shift, 2024 American League Rookie of the Year Luis Gil has been optioned to Triple-A affiliate Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
The talented Dominican is not immediately required in the major leagues as New York plans to utilise a four-man rotation through the early stages of the season due to scheduled rest days.
To finalise their squad depth, the franchise selected the contract of veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk from the minor leagues.
The 34-year-old has signed a one-year deal worth $2.5m (£1.97m) while in the majors, with an additional $1.5m (£1.18m) available through plate appearance performance bonuses.
The former Arizona and Kansas City player batted a disappointing .125 during spring training but provides valuable major league experience for the New York outfield.
