One of Major League Baseball’s top sluggers is nearing his return. Yankees outfielder Giancarlo Stanton hopes to return in September, the team said, fortifying an already-terrifying lineup in the Bronx. But he’s not the only one who might be coming back. Giants pitcher Johnny Cueto, thought to be out for the season after Tommy John surgery last year, might be returning for the stretch run, too. In less surprising news, the Diamondbacks had to put ace pitcher Robbie Ray on the injured list, and Marlins CEO Derek Jeter said he has not yet decided on manager Don Mattingly’s fate.
Stanton isn’t the only Yankee set to return. So too are pitchers Luis Severino and Dellin Betances. Of course, that will make for some tough decisions on the playoff roster.
Giancarlo Stanton says he’s confident he’ll make it back healthy this season: pic.twitter.com/z1yYeMytRO
— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) August 15, 2019
Johnny Cueto isn’t just coming back this season. He’s already rehabbing and looked pretty good in his first action back.
Johnny Cueto’s night is done. 2 2/3 innings and 49 pitches (36 strikes) for the #SJGiants in Visalia. Allowed one run on a third-inning solo homer – was the only hard hit ball. No walks, two strikeouts. FB was at 92, topped 93. Mixed in all his offspeed. Looked sharp.
— Joe Ritzo (@JoeRitzo) August 16, 2019
In contrast, Ray apparently hurt himself while warming up in between innings. Certainly, that’s an ill-timed freak injury for a Diamondbacks team still with a playoff pulse.
What we know about Robbie Ray’s apparent injury. #Dbacks #Rockies https://t.co/9gfFy9eZLz
— azcentral sports (@azcsports) August 14, 2019
Meanwhile, some say Mattingly isn’t the right leader for the extremely young Marlins. Others say the team’s failures can’t be held against him.
.@Marlins CEO Derek Jeter discusses Don Mattingly’s status, the offseason, and Miami’s minor-league system.#JuntosMiami #MLB pic.twitter.com/ykWhnDLZw9
— FOX Sports Florida (@FOXSportsFL) August 14, 2019
TOP STORIES
• 3 Yankees jobs in jeopardy when Luis Severino, Giancarlo Stanton, Dellin Betances return | NJ.com
• Giants have internally discussed speeding up Johnny Cueto’s return | NBC San Francisco
• Diamondbacks LHP Ray placed on injured list | Associated Press
