URGENT UPDATE: Paul Goldschmidt, star first baseman for the New York Yankees, is facing a potential trip to the injured list due to a low-grade right knee sprain. The decision will be made before Friday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals, where Goldschmidt had been expected to return.
Goldschmidt suffered the injury while chasing a foul ball during Tuesday’s 9-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins. He overran the catch, slipped, and landed hard on his knee. “When I kind of overran it and dove back, hit my knee on the ground I guess,” Goldschmidt stated post-game. “I felt that it was sore yesterday but obviously was able to play through it.”
Manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Goldschmidt would be evaluated during the Yankees’ day off, stating, “He’s dealing with something so we’ll see if it’s an IL situation.” Goldschmidt experienced soreness after the game and did not participate in Wednesday’s match.
This injury comes at a critical time for the Yankees as they aim to solidify their standings in the league. Goldschmidt, who has been a key player since signing a one-year, $12.5 million contract in December, boasts a batting average of .276 this season, including 10 home runs and 40 RBIs across 112 games.
His impressive statistics against left-handed pitching, with an average of .404, have made him an invaluable asset. Goldschmidt did not start Wednesday’s game and was also absent from pinch-hitting opportunities, highlighted by rookie Austin Wells striking out in the seventh inning against left-handed reliever Kody Funderburk.
With Goldschmidt’s status uncertain, the Yankees have turned to Ben Rice, who made his 26th start at first base, along with Cody Bellinger, who has extensive experience at the position. Bellinger noted Goldschmidt’s importance, saying, “He’s been a huge part of this team… a vacuum over there.”
The Yankees will monitor Goldschmidt’s condition closely, and a decision on his status for the upcoming series against the Cardinals will be crucial. Fans and teammates alike are hoping for a swift recovery, knowing how pivotal he is to the team’s success this season.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Yankees announce their plans for Goldschmidt’s return and potential IL move.
