Jake Cousins’ Recovery Hits a Snag

Jake Cousins is facing a setback in his recovery from a right elbow flexor strain. It seems another issue has cropped up.

According to manager Aaron Boone, the Yankees’ relief pitchers are currently on a four to five-day shutdown due to problems with their pec muscles. Boone shared this update Saturday before the team’s series against the Mets at Yankee Stadium.

“We don’t believe it’s anything serious, but it’s enough to keep him sidelined for a little while,” Boone explained.

Cousins had initially faced Giancarlo Stanton during his first live session on May 6, followed by another session. Unfortunately, he then encountered this pec issue.

He had been optimistic about returning by mid-June, but this latest setback is likely to delay that timeline significantly.

Boone mentioned that Cousins underwent testing for his pec and, while he doesn’t appear overly concerned, he did note that Cousins seems to be experiencing some discomfort. “I think he’s a bit uncomfortable,” Boone stated. “Hopefully, it’s nothing serious.”

The Yankees do have a strong bullpen, and they bolstered their roster on Friday when Jonathan Loáisiga was activated from the injured list. Additionally, Scott Effross is also in the process of his rehabilitation, while Clayton Beeter was sent down to Triple-A after a brief stint.

If Cousins can get back to full health, he could add another potent option to the bullpen. By the end of last season, he had proven to be a high-leverage arm with considerable strikeout potential.

At 30 years old, right-hander Cousins posted an impressive ERA of 2.37 in 2024, notching 53 strikeouts across 38 innings. Fingers crossed for a swift recovery.