UPDATE: The New York Yankees are facing a potential roster shake-up as veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt is dealing with a low-grade right knee sprain. The Yankees are considering placing Goldschmidt on the injured list ahead of their crucial series against the St. Louis Cardinals this weekend.
The team will conduct an evaluation of Goldschmidt during their day off, with a decision expected before Friday’s game against the Cardinals. Manager Aaron Boone stated, “He’s dealing with something, so we’ll see if it’s an IL situation,” following the Yankees’ 4-1 loss to the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday. Goldschmidt, who reported feeling significant soreness, is currently showing signs of improvement.
The injury occurred during Tuesday’s 9-1 victory over the Twins, where Goldschmidt slipped while attempting to catch a foul pop from Byron Buxton. “When I kind of overran it and dove back, I hit my knee on the ground,” Goldschmidt explained. Despite the discomfort, he played through the pain, contributing by hitting a double in the seventh inning before being lifted from the game.
Goldschmidt has been a critical asset for the Yankees this season, boasting a batting average of .276 with 10 home runs and 40 RBIs across 112 games. Notably, he has excelled against left-handed pitching, hitting an impressive .404. His defensive skills are equally noteworthy, with a fielding percentage of .996, having committed only three errors in 745 chances this season.
The Yankees are considering alternative options at first base, with Ben Rice stepping in for his 26th start on Wednesday. Cody Bellinger, who has a wealth of experience at first base with 273 career starts, is also on standby. Bellinger praised Goldschmidt’s defensive prowess, stating, “He’s been a huge part of this team. He’s a vacuum over there.”
As the Yankees navigate this potential setback, fans and analysts alike are left wondering how Goldschmidt’s status may impact the team’s performance moving forward. The decision on his future will be closely monitored as the team prepares for a pivotal game against the Cardinals.
Stay tuned for updates on Goldschmidt’s condition and the Yankees’ roster decisions as they unfold.