Nestor Cortes’ High-Stakes Gamble: The Risk and Reward of Throwing in the World Series With a Back Injury

Nestor Cortes, the New York Yankees pitcher, is well aware of the long-term threats to his career if he chooses to take the mound in the World Series just a month after being diagnosed with a flexor strain. Such an injury often points to a more serious elbow problem on the horizon. Despite this, Cortes is willing to risk millions of his future free agency for a chance to participate in World Series Game 1 against the Los Angeles Dodgers this Friday.

Understanding Risks

Cortes, along with team officials, coaches, representatives, and family members, has carefully considered the consequences of his decision. “We considered the potential downside,” Cortes noted, “but if I can get a championship ring and take a year off from baseball, I’m willing to accept that trade.”

It seemed unlikely that Cortes would return to the field in 2024 after being sidelined with an injury less than four weeks ago. The Yankees would have to advance to the World Series to give him enough time to recover, but even there, things were looking up for him.

Willing Return

However, Cortes was not discouraged. After a ten-day break and a PRP injection, he began his journey back. Starting with a 60-foot throw, he progressed to 90 feet, then 120 feet, and finally returned to the mound. On Tuesday, he successfully completed a 28-pitch bullpen session at Yankee Stadium, against hitters like Oswaldo Cabrera and Austin Wells.

As long as he doesn’t get a rare upset when he wakes up Wednesday, he expects to be on the Yankees’ World Series roster. “It’s as good as it gets,” Cortes agreed. “I believe once the adrenaline hits the biggest stage in baseball, I’ll be ready for the job.”

Team Managers’ Perspective

Aaron Boone, the Yankees’ manager, said Monday there is a “hundreds chance” of Cortes making the roster. The team is considering fielding 13 players and 13 position players in the World Series, which is a slight change from the AL Championship Series.

Cortes’ last performance on the field was on September 18. A week later, he was pulled from the scheduled start and placed on the injured list, marking the end of his regular season. Having started nearly the entire season (30 of 31 games), Cortes is set to pitch out of the Yankees’ bullpen during the World Series, ready to deliver “20 to 30 pitches.”

Looking Forward to the World Series

The Yankees previously relied on two lefties, Tim Hill and Tim Mayza, in their first playoff series. The trio, including Cortes if he makes the roster, will face the daunting task of quieting the Dodgers’ formidable left-handed hitters, including Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, and expected NL MVP, Shohei Ohtani.

“I’m going to have to throw everything but the kitchen sinks at him,” Cortes said of Ohtani, showing his strong determination not only for Ohtani but for all lefties on the Dodgers’ roster.

Richard Hayes is a writer for all things football at 21Sports.com. His international perspective and extensive knowledge of the game has made him a trusted voice in the industry. Richard’s experience covering major leagues around the world allows him to provide unique insights that resonate with both casual fans and fitness enthusiasts. When he’s not involved in sports, Richard likes to coach youth soccer in his community.