The Yankees have accelerated the timeline for Jonathan Loáisiga, who is back ahead of schedule.
The righty is no longer rehabbing, activated from the injured list before Fridayâs Subway Series opener in The Bronx.
The original plan had called for Loáisiga to throw on consecutive days in the minors this weekend, but the Yankees apparently felt he was ready.
The related roster change was notable: The Yankees decided to designate Tyler Matzek for assignment, potentially marking the end of his short stint after the seasoned left-hander made a strong impression during camp.
Loáisiga will return to a major league pitcher’s mound for the first time since April 3 of the previous year, following elbow surgery that sidelined him for approximately 13 months.
The high-octane bullpen arm looked strong in six rehab games, allowing one run in 7 â innings while striking out nine.
He can be used for length, having tossed two innings in one game with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
If Matzek is lost on waivers or through a trade, he would have lasted just seven games in pinstripes.
The seven-year major leaguer allowed three runs in 6 â innings, his largest issue the five walks he had issued.
