FORT MYERS, Fla. — Nestor Cortez didn’t blame the cleats, but he also didn’t give them the credit.
After Saturday’s statistically disappointing but physically encouraging spring outing, Cortez wore the spikes he was wearing (jean spikes made of denim and emblazoned with the Nike Swoosh). announced that he would retire.
“I’m trying to add a little bit of flair to it,” said Cortez, who commissioned custom shoe maker Soles by Sir to create a design using denim. “I don’t think a lot of people liked it.”
Cortez was able to smile because he felt okay for his third start in the Grapefruit League after missing the 2023 season and part of the offseason with a shoulder issue.
The Yankees left-handed pitcher gave up six runs, walked one, and struck out six in 3 1/3 innings in a 10-7 loss to the Twins at Hammond Stadium. His batting lineup was worse than I expected.
On a windy, sunny day, several flies hit the grass. Among them was a fly out by Byron Buxton, but center fielder Greg Allen couldn’t find the ball, resulting in a three-run triple.
Cortez’s command wasn’t spot-on — manager Aaron Boone said he couldn’t hit the top of the strike zone with his four-seamer — but he felt fine in his shoulders and abdomen.
He pitched part of the fourth inning (he was given 24 pitches in the second inning, but came back on the pitch in the third), reaching 62 pitches.
“My goal coming here was to get my pitches up again, get four ups and get into the low 60s. And the best part was to come back healthy.” said Cortez. “Physically-wise, I’m happy with where I’m at right now. There were probably some pitches I could have commanded better, but other than that, I’m happy with where I’m at right now. [I was happy]”
Cortez, a 2022 All-Star, had a largely ineffective start to just 12 games last season, plagued by rotator cuff issues.
Cortes took a break from pitching in November and began strengthening in December, but his shoulder continued to bother him.
He worked with Yankees trainers to strengthen his shoulder and is recovering well so far, but acknowledged Sunday will be important for him.
He needs to keep bouncing back after the start.
“I’m happy with where he is,” Boone said.
Relief pitcher Nick Vardy, who stood out in camp, twisted his ankle on a disorganized play in the sixth inning.
First baseman Oswaldo Cabrera camped in the foul area behind the bases to catch the pop-up, then sprinted toward the mound when the wind caught the ball.
Cabrera dived, the ball dropped, and Burdi also hit an infield hit.
Burdi remained in the game. Coach Boone said the right-hander had iced his ankle but was OK.
The Yankees optioned catcher Agustin Ramirez to Double-A Somerset.
