Yankees manager Aaron Boone makes big announcement on Nestor Cortes’ potential return

The New York Yankees took a major step toward their first World Series berth since 2009 after defeating the Cleveland Guardians in Game 2 on Tuesday night. The victory gave the Yankees a commanding 2-0 lead in the American League Championship Series heading into Game 3 on Thursday.

As the Yankees continue to prove why they have long been considered one of the World Series favorites, they could soon be getting some additional reinforcements. On Wednesday, manager Aaron Boone spoke about the progress made by pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr., who has been ramping up activity as he eyes his return to the lineup.

Aaron Boone said that Nestor Cortes has been working his way back to the roster after suffering a flexor strain in his left elbow at the end of September. According to Boone, Cortes will make a series of bullpen sessions before potentially returning to the team if it reaches the World Series:

"He could potentially have two or three lives, if we were to get through this series, it would potentially set him up to have a good body of work to potentially be an option if we're able to get to the World Series."

The 29-year-old pitcher enjoyed a strong bounceback season for New York, posting a 9-10 record with a 3.77 ERA and 162 strikeouts over 174.1 innings of work. Bringing a proven arm such as Nestor Cortes back into the rotation, or even out of the bullpen, would be massive for New York if it was to reach the World Series.

Nestor Cortes could help bring additional flexibilty to the New York Yankees pitching staff

It's safe to say that postseason baseball is a different beast. Given the nature of the playoffs, manager Aaron Boone has been strategic with how he has used his pitching staff. While solidified superstars such as Gerrit Cole have continued to serve as a starter, veteran Marcus Stroman has been moved to the bullpen.

While some may feel that the move to the bullpen could be seen as a demotion, Stroman's experience as a starter helps provide the Yankees with quality depth and flexibilty in each game. This could be a similar role that Nestor Cortes could provide for Boone, who could use him as either a starter or bullpen arm.

No matter how he is used, having a proven talent such as Nestor Cortes only helps the New York Yankees in their quest for their first World Series title since 2009.