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Luis Severino open to bullpen role upon return

It’s been a rough 2019 season for Luis Severino.

Before the season even began, the 25-year-old was sidelined due to inflammation in his right shoulder. He then hit another setback, as he was diagnosed with a Grade 2 lat strain a few weeks later.

Severino has yet to see the mound this season. Although he’s been sidelined, the Yankees seem optimistic that the right-hander will rejoin the team at some point this season.

In a press conference on July 14, general manager Brian Cashman told reporters that Severino would need “six or more” weeks in order to be ready. Cashman discussed a few ways that Severino may be used down the stretch, including as a 75-pitch starter or in a bullpen role.

As he looks to help this Yankees team win games, Severino is open to anything once he returns to the mound.

When speaking to reporters, Severino said tat he’s open to whatever the Yankees need him to do down the stretch. Although he plans on continuing as a full-time starter upon his return, the two-time All-Star stated that he has thought about pitching out of the bullpen. Severino believes that pitching out of the bullpen would ultimately get him back on the mound sooner.

Although Severino is looking ahead, he’s still a ways off from actually returning.

On Monday, Severino took a step in the right direction. He, along with fellow teammate Dellin Betances, began a new throwing program. Each pitcher made 25 throws on flat ground from 60 feet, and will have a rest day on Tuesday. Without any setbacks, both pitchers are scheduled to throw again on Wednesday.

As Severino begins the throwing program, the Yankees will be keeping a close eye on his health. If he continues to progress, there is hope that he can make a return before the end of the regular season.

With the trade deadline just a few weeks away, Severino’s health (and their plan for him upon return) can play a huge role in what the organization does on the trade market. Based on their information on Severino, they can decide what assets they may need to acquire in order to provide a boost for the playoff stretch.

It will be interesting to see how the Yankees plan on using Severino if he is able to return this season. Will they look to stretch him out to re-take his role in the rotation, or will they elect to limit his workload by using him in the bullpen?Β Only time will tell.

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