New Max Fried injury update is crucial for Yankees

The New York Yankees received an encouraging Max Fried injury update Saturday when the left-hander completed his first mound session since returning to the injured list with a bone bruise in his left elbow.

Fried threw 26 pitches in the bullpen as he works toward another return to New York’s rotation. The injury affects the same elbow that sidelined him for more than two months earlier this season, from May 13 through July 22.

The Yankees placed Fried on the 15-day injured list on Monday, retroactive to August 14. He had made five starts since returning in July and owns a 2.81 ERA across 15 outings this season.

On Saturday, The YES Network’s Meredith Marakovits shared an update on X, formerly Twitter, regarding the southpaw’s recovery.

“Max Fried threw a 26 pitch bullpen session today. First time on the mound since landing on IL (bone bruise left elbow). According to pitching coach Matt Blake all went well. Fried said yesterday he’s optimistic he’ll only need the minimum on the IL #yankees”

Fried expressed optimism Friday that he would require only a minimum stay on the injured list. He can become eligible for activation August 29, provided his recovery continues without another setback. Live batting practice could follow Saturday’s bullpen session as the Yankees determine his next step.

His progress carries considerable importance for a team pursuing the American League East title. New York entered Saturday at 73-55, three games behind the first-place Tampa Bay Rays, after opening its series against the Toronto Blue Jays with a 3-1 win on Friday night.

The Yankees recently welcomed Carlos Rodon back from an elbow injury, while Gerrit Cole and Cam Schlittler have provided stability in the rotation during Fried’s absence. Regaining another frontline starter before September would strengthen the staff for the stretch run and a possible postseason appearance.

Saturday’s bullpen session does not guarantee Fried will return when first eligible. However, completing the workout without an apparent issue gives the Yankees tangible progress and keeps alive the possibility of a brief absence.

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