Yankees’ Luke Weaver Shines Before Scheduled Day Off

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Luke Weaver earned himself a day off on Tuesday but worked overtime on Monday night to secure a win for the Yankees. Even in a non-save situation, manager Aaron Boone called on Weaver to pitch the ninth inning, marking his fifth appearance in seven days.

This comes after a challenging 21-pitch save on Sunday in Colorado, where the high altitude affected his pitching. Back closer to sea level, Weaver allowed a walk and a single but closed the door effectively. Boone shared his thoughts on the decision, saying, “I thought he was good. I was a little in between, but going with him tonight, knowing you’re going to be down with him [Tuesday].”

Yerry De los Santos pitched in relief of Ryan Yarbrough, striking out three over 1 ¹/₃ innings, while Mark Leiter Jr. secured the last two outs of the eighth. Boone noted Devin Williams warmed up in case Weaver got into trouble during the bottom of the ninth, but Weaver ultimately managed to escape.

In injury news, Luis Gil, who has been sidelined with a lat strain, is expected to throw his first bullpen session on Friday. Boone anticipates a potential return by July if all goes well. Meanwhile, Jazz Chisholm Jr., recovering from an oblique strain, is scheduled to undergo a full workout on Tuesday, with hopes for rehab games later in the week.

Giancarlo Stanton, dealing with tennis elbow, arrived in Tampa on Monday to participate in live at-bats this week. Boone stated, “Hopefully he’ll get a number of live at-bats and through the weekend.”

Finally, Fernando Cruz, recovering from shoulder inflammation, threw off flat ground again Monday and aims to throw a bullpen session on Wednesday. If all goes smoothly, he could be facing hitters by the weekend.