Breaking: Key Yankees reliever suffers rehab setback

The New York Yankees had been hoping to have Ian back in the bullpen sooner rather than later. Hamilton, who has been sidelined for about two months due to a right lat strain he sustained in June, is currently on a minor league rehab assignment.

Hamilton was scheduled to pitch for Double-A Somerset on Friday but did not take the mound. Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided an update on Hamilton’s status before Saturday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals.

“He had some back spasms yesterday, so he was scratched from his outing,” Boone said. “He’s here today, and it doesn’t seem like a major issue. He might even go out and play catch today, but the back spasms flared up before he was supposed to pitch.”

While Boone’s comments suggest that Hamilton’s setback isn’t too serious, it still means the reliever’s return might be delayed longer than originally expected. Boone did not specify when Hamilton would make his next rehab appearance.

The Yankees currently hold the best record in the American League, leading the Baltimore Orioles by 1 1/2 games in the AL East. With the Orioles close behind in the standings, every game is critical for the Yankees as they aim to secure a first-round bye in the postseason. Hamilton’s return would be a significant boost, providing much-needed depth to the Yankees’ pitching staff.

Why the Yankees need Ian Hamilton

The Yankees were eager to reintegrate Hamilton into their bullpen, especially given that closer Clay Holmes has cooled off after his blistering start to the season, during which he didn’t allow an earned run in his first 20 appearances. Hamilton’s return would have provided much-needed support as the team navigates the challenges of maintaining their lead in the division.

Aaron Boone says that Ian Hamilton was scratched from last night's rehab outing with back spasms: pic.twitter.com/WDJEAD7jps

— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) August 31, 2024