C.C. Sabathia shut down indefinitely with knee setback
By Hayden Kane
The New York Yankees have been long awaiting C.C. Sabathia‘s return to their rotation. The big lefty has been out since May with inflammation in his right knee. He was initially set to return sometime this month after the All-Star Game, but a setback this week forced the Yankees to shut down his rehab. As things stand now, Sabathia is out indefinitely.
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Sabathia struggled so much in a rehab appearance this week, allowing five runs on five hits in less than four innings, that the team had him go in for another MRI. While it does not sound like any revelations came from the MRI, it still motivated the Yankees to shut him down indefinitely and they will now consult with doctors about what’s next.
Manager Joe Girardi certainly seemed to express some concern about the situation (from ESPN New York):
"“To have to shut him down there’s some concern. We’ll let doctors determine what it is. [A recent MRI] doesn’t show anything new, he’s got swelling in it.”The manager said Sabathia likely will meet with Dr. James Andrews."
Ahh yes. The three words you never want to hear: Dr. James Andrews. But since the Yankees are in no rush, apparently the most famous doctor in sports isn’t either. According to Girardi:
"“Like I said, it’s not what we wanted. You don’t want a setback like this. I think it’s going to be a few days, I’m not talking Tuesday or Wednesday; I think Dr. Andrews is out of town for a while.”"
Wait a minute. Dr. James Andrews thinks he is allowed to go on vacation?
As for the Yankees, this will likely add even more urgency to their search for starting pitching at the trade deadline.