Oswald Cabrera made his way back to Yankee Stadium on Thursday, using a scooter in the clubhouse to kick off his rehab after breaking his left ankle last month.
While it seems like the infielder might be sidelined for the entire season, Cabrera, known for his optimism, hasn’t completely ruled out a return.
“They mentioned there’s a slight chance, but I’m an optimistic guy,” Cabrera shared just before the Yankees secured a 4-0 victory over the Guardians. “I’m going to work to get there.”
The Yankees and manager Aaron Boone agree, showing confidence in Cabrera’s determination.
Boone stated, “We’re not expecting a return, but healing is unpredictable over the next few months. Cabrera is one of those players who truly loves the game and will work hard during rehab.”
Cabrera’s injury happened during a run at home plate, where he had to dodge a couple of tag attempts, ultimately scoring a run but quickly realizing something was wrong afterward.
When asked if he would handle that play differently, Cabrera replied, “I think I probably would have just slid.”
Post-surgery, he had plates and screws placed in his ankle and has been focusing on swiftly overcoming the mental aspect of his injury.
With Cabrera out, the Yankees have shifted to Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has recently returned from the injured list with a right-side issue.
In other news, pitcher Marcus Stroman threw a live batting practice session for two innings at the stadium on Thursday, and Boone mentioned that Stroman is being groomed for a starting role.
“We’re planning to start him. That’s the goal… it’s all about building him back up,” Boone explained.
Stroman has been sidelined due to left knee inflammation since April 11, and his latest outing is another positive development after he pitched live batting practice over the weekend.
“His knees seemed to be responding well,” Boone noted. “I think he’s looking sharp.”
Stroman threw around 40 pitches and expressed that he felt physically better, paving the way for potential future sessions or a minor league rehab assignment.
Right now, however, keeping Stroman’s knees healthy remains the primary concern.
He had experienced pain in Tampa on May 9, which delayed his return and restricted him to bullpen work until he could face batters in Los Angeles.
This season, Stroman has only pitched a total of 9¹/₃ innings. He has a vesting option that guarantees him $18 million next year, provided he reaches 140 innings this season.
As for Giancarlo Stanton, Boone mentioned he would remain in Tampa for the rest of the week to continue his batting practices.
Stanton is expected to begin his minor league rehab assignment next week.
Meanwhile, Jasson Domínguez returned to action, going 4-for-4 following a thumb injury sustained while sliding during a stolen base attempt against the Dodgers.
Boone confirmed Domínguez was cleared to play on Wednesday and won’t face any limitations in left field.
Before his injury, Domínguez had been performing strongly in a 20-game stretch, accumulating seven extra-base hits and an OPS of .903.
