The New York Yankees and their fans received some bad news this morning.
The news is regarding newly acquired right-hander Scott Effross.
The 28-year-old was acquired from the Chicago Cubs at the trade deadline and helped stabilize the Yankee bullpen.
He posted a 2.13 ERA in 13 appearances.
Unfortunately, it was learned today that Effross was dealing with an elbow issue.
Not only will he be kept off the postseason roster as a result of this issue, but it’s an injury that is going to require Tommy John surgery, which could put his 2023 season in jeopardy.
In total, Effross was 1-4 with a 2.54 ERA in 60 appearances between the Cubs and Yankees.
Scott Effross was excluded from the ALDS roster because he had an elbow issue and it’s been determined that he will need Tommy John surgery. Major loss for the Yankees, who viewed Effross as a linchpin reliever in this postseason and beyond. #effross https://t.co/emS4GMZgZd
— Jack Curry (@JackCurryYES) October 11, 2022
Effross Out
This is a huge blow for the Yankees.
Effross was a key piece in their bullpen down the stretch and could be used in high-leverage spots.
Unfortunately, this injury will keep him out for the remainder of the postseason, depending on how far the Yankees go.
It’s also very possible that he won’t pitch at all in 2023.
That would be a huge loss for the Yankees next season.
Effross was acquired to help strengthen the Yankees bullpen, and he has done just that.
As Jack Curry mentioned in the tweet above, the Yankees viewed him as potential linchpin reliever for this October and beyond.
It’s especially bad considering the Aroldis Chapman saga.
The lefty reliever was also left off the roster after not attending a team workout.
So now, the Yankees are down two key relievers entering the ALDS against a red-hot Cleveland Guardians team.
They’ll have to piece some things together in order to bridge the gap between their starters and relievers such as Clay Holmes.
NEXT: The Yankees Have Several Snubs With Their ALDS Roster