At the onset of the 2024 season, the New York Yankees will face the absence of a key reliever. Tommy Kahnle, a hard-throwing right-handed pitcher, has been grappling with a shoulder injury during Spring Training, closely monitored by the team. Despite making progress, Kahnle is slated to commence the season on the Injured List, as reported by Erik Boland of Newsday Sports.
Boland mentioned that Kahnle conducted a 20-pitch live batting practice session on Sunday, indicating his ongoing recovery process. Kahnle’s significance to the Yankees’ bullpen is undeniable, and his potential prolonged absence would undoubtedly impact the team negatively, especially considering their current roster plagued by various injuries even before the season opener.
Last season, Kahnle showcased his prowess with a 2.66 ERA across 42 appearances, demonstrating a commendable 48-to-19 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 40 2/3 innings. Although he was drafted by the Yankees in the fifth round of the 2010 MLB June Amateur Draft, Kahnle made his Major League debut with the Colorado Rockies in 2014.
Over his nine-year career, he has traversed through the Rockies, Chicago White Sox, Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Kahnle’s instrumental role in fortifying the Yankees’ bullpen contributed significantly to their status as the best bullpen in baseball last season. The team is hopeful for his swift recovery and return to the mound.