Fresh off an embarrassing postseason exit, the New York Yankees gear up for another chance at the World Series. But, a familiar enemy– injuries – haunts to derail their plans even before the regular season. This is about relief pitcher Tommy Kahnle who was expected to be a key cog in the Yankees’ bullpen. Being “a little behind” is not what one saw coming. 

While the process of recovery from a shoulder injury is in motion, there are doubts – Will he play on Opening Day? Well, it is not wise to say that Kahnle’s recent setbacks are just a small blip. In fact, in 2022, after signing a lucrative contract, he appeared in only 14 games over the previous three seasons. Despite his ailments, he made a strong comeback in 2023, but what about 2024? 

The New York Yankees Find Themselves In a Fix As Past Fears Strike Again

History shows that he pitched to a 2.66 ERA in 42 appearances. However, his season was cut short yet again owing to a right shoulder inflammation. On one hand, manager Aaron Boone remains optimistic about #41’s overall recovery. On the other, he acknowledges that the pitcher is not where he was supposed to be in his recovery journey. “He’s a little behind,” Boone stated, elaborating that he’s throwing bullpens. Yet, it’s safe to assume that he won’t be seen in games until the end of spring training. 

With the uncertainty of the date of his return, the delay casts a shadow over Kahnle’s presence in the season opener. How will the Yankees face the Houston Astros on March 28th with important pieces like Kahnle missing? Boone does believe that he would be physically ready, but only if the workload is managed well. 

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Adding to that, Boone further shared, “I think he’ll be ready, but it’s a matter of do we want him to have more games under his belt? That’s what we’re kind of deciding“. What would the Yankees’ alternate options be if they were to proceed without the 34-year-old? 

Finding Alternatives For Tommy Kahnle

In the worst-case scenario of Kahnle being unavailable, the Yankees would have to amend their bullpen plans. The name Jonathan Loaisiga comes to mind, because he filled in admirably last season. Perhaps he could step into a more prominent role this year. Nevertheless, the void of not having a high-leverage arm like Kahnle would surely weaken the options for their late games. 

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This is a tough spot for the Yankees to be in. Boone is currently balancing the desire to have a healthy Kahnle back for the long haul and the need for him to contribute adequately in the season’s crucial opening period. All eyes will be on the Yankees, tracking how their injured players can overcome past hurdles and establish their place in the chase for the championship.