New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has given major update on Fernando Cruz as the star pitcher is suffering from a shoulder issue. The reports of his shoulder came in as negative as Boone expressed optimism that they'll be able to get him back on the field soon.
What did Aaron Boone say about Fernando Cruz?
The 35-year-old pitcher has a 2.66 ERA and 0.97 WHIP along with two saves to his name in the 14 games he has featured in this season. He is used as a reliever by Boone under high intensified situations.
The news of Cruz came into light on Wednesday after Boone revealed what actually happened to the star pitcher. The fans and analysts were kept in the dark as to why he was unavailable as he last pitched in Game 2 of the Subway Series against New York Mets. During that game, Cruz managed to retire four hitters, one earned run, one walk and one strikeout. He is currently listed on the team's injury report on a day-to-day basis due to his shoulder injury.
In April 2023, while playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Cruz was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right shoulder strain. A shoulder problem for Fernando Cruz is nothing new as he has suffered issues with it in the past.
Fernando Cruz on playing first Subway Series
After playing for Cincinnati Reds for three long years, Cruz along with Alex Jackson, were traded in the offseason to New York Yankees. They in return had to exchange Jose Trevino for these two players.
Joining a franchise of this big stature comes with it's own perks as he gets to play in one of the most iconic rivalries in the sport. Ahead of the Subway Series, Cruz did an interview with 'The Post' where he revealed his thoughts on suiting up for the Bronx Bombers.
It’s gonna be an intense one, Cruz said. It’s gonna be a great one because the fans are gonna make it that way. But I think between the teams, there’s no, like, hate, there’s nothing personal between us. I think the fans are gonna make it really, really enjoyable. It’s gonna be a World Series atmosphere.
Cruz was even asked about pitching to Mets slugger Juan Soto and he replied saying,
If you want to be a good pitcher in the big leagues, you gotta be able to execute pitches against those guys.
Not just this, Cruz even spoke highly about Soto and his disciplined approach at the plate.
He doesn’t swing at bad pitches, he added. You have to really come into the strike zone to get the guy out. It’s what makes him special. If you come in, and he’s looking for a pitch, he’s not gonna miss it. And if he does it, he’s not gonna do it a lot of times.
Fernando Cruz was not able to deliver for the Yankees when he was asked to pitch in the series as they suffered a loss in that game.