Beltran Lands on 15-day DL
(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Carlos Beltran was placed on the 15-day disabled list this afternoon, retroactive to May 13. Beltran hyper-extended his elbow in between innings during Monday's game. The MRI revealed old bone spurs in his elbow, he was given a cortisone shot hoping that it would be just a few days, but the Yankees need the roster space right now. Manager Joe Girardi said he knew he wasn't going to be able to play Beltran this weekend and they had to make room for tonight's starter Chase Whitley, so the decision came to place him on the disabled list. To get Whitley on the 40-man they designated Bruce Billings for assignment.
Beltran was also given cortisone pills to take today in hopes that it will help ease the inflammation in this elbow. Beltran wasn't sure how he was going to react to the treatment, but right now the only other option is minor surgery to remove the bone spurs. If Beltran and the Yankees decide to go down that route, he would be out six-to-eight weeks, basically looking at the end of July. “It’s frustrating, but at the end of the day, there’s nothing I can do about it, I just have to find a way to get better and get back." said Beltran during the pregame clubhouse interview.
For now it means increased playing time for Ichiro Suzuki, who is finally feeling better with the sore back. Ichiro isn't in the lineup tonight and might not be available if needed, but he is slated to see the most increase in playing time. The other player that will be thrust into the mix is Zoilo Almonte, he was recalled from Scranton after setup man Shawn Kelley was placed on the 15-day. Being in the middle of inter-league play roster spots are at essential and the diminished arms in the rotation and bullpen aren't helping.
Beltran isn't really able to swing at all yet, he was taking some swings with his left arm during yesterday's batting practice, but with the injury being in his elbow, he has yet to attempt any full swings from either side of the plate. The right elbow, which is also his throwing arm also needs to be healthy if he is going to play in the field, so right now it really is just waiting game with Beltran. GM Brian Cashman said there is a possibility that Carlos heads down to see Dr. James Andrews for a final opinion on the elbow if the cortisone pills dont help and is still sore after the weekend. Honestly surgery might be the best recourse right now, he gets it done and he could be back in time for the final postseason push.