Yankees expect news on Masahiro Tanaka in another week
Yankees starting pitcher Masahiro Tanaka watches from the dugout after leaving a game against the Cleveland Indians in the seventh inning on Tuesday, July 8, 2014, in Cleveland. Credit: AP / Tony Dejak
In about a week the Yankees should have a better idea if Masahiro Tanaka will pitch again for them this season. "We're still waiting for that three-week mark," Joe Girardi said.
Tanaka, diagnosed with a torn UCL in his right elbow, received a PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection July 14 as part of a rehab process the Yankees hoped would return him to the rotation in six or seven weeks.
"Nothing's really going to change until the three-week mark," Girardi said. "He's staying back [in New York] doing treatment every day. He feels better and better, and you just kind of wait and see where you're at after three weeks."
Chasing an outfielder
The Yankees were among the teams impressed with what they saw from Rusney Castillo, a 27-year-old Cuban free agent, during a showcase Saturday that drew 28 teams. The Yankees have scheduled a private workout with the outfielder. Baseball America first reported the workout, adding the Red Sox and Phillies also scheduled private workouts. MASNSports.com reported the Orioles will work Castillo out privately as well.
Beltran getting closer
Carlos Beltran, relegated to designated hitter duties since June 4 because of a bone spur in his right elbow, could be closing in on a return to the outfield.
"He's up to 100, 120 feet," Girardi said of Beltran's throwing program. "He's obviously closer and we're trying to get him out there. He'll continue to stretch it out and increase the intensity."
Extra bases
Before the game, the Yankees called up outfielder Zoilo Almonte and designated for assignment lefthander Jeff Francis, who allowed a three-run homer to Dan Johnson in the ninth inning of Saturday's 6-4 loss to the Blue Jays . . . Righthander Michael Pineda (right shoulder muscle) is slated to throw 45-50 pitches in a simulated game Tuesday in Tampa.. . . Entering Monday night, Jacob Lindgren, the club's first pick overall in this year's draft, had not allowed an earned run in four relief outings, comprising 51/3 innings, with High-A Tampa, walking four and striking out 10.
