The New York Yankees are gearing up for another season, ready to chase World Series title number 28. Unfortunately, they already have an injury and spring training hasn’t even started yet! Tyler Austin, one of the team’s rookie first basemen sensations, has a small fracture in his foot and is estimated to miss about six weeks of playing time.
Joe Girardi confirmed the injury to reporters following team workouts at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Friday, and made note that the 25-year-old will be in a walking boot for the time being. Austin fouled a ball off his foot during batting practice and a MRI done Friday afternoon confirmed the fracture. Austin is expected to miss a majority of spring training action.
“It’s unfortunate,” manager Joe Girardi said upon hearing the confirmed news.
However, the Yankees do have some help in the first baseman department. Greg Bird, who missed all of last season with a shoulder injury, is way ahead of schedule and is already planning to have a big comeback year. The team also signed veteran Chris Carter to a one-year deal worth a little over $3 million, so the insurance is definitely there. It’s always tough to see players injured, more so before the season even starts, but as long as Carter and Bird stay healthy, the Yankees have nothing to worry about.
