The rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox resumes tonight at Fenway Park, but as always, health and availability are just as important as talent when it comes to determining the outcome of such a heated rivalry.
Heading into this April 21st matchup, the Yankees’ injury situation presents a mix of long-term absences, key names nearing returning, and a roster that has managed to stay surprisingly competitive despite setbacks.
Injury Update Issued for New York Yankees’ Gerrit Cole
GettyTAMPA, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 28: Gerrit Cole #45 of the New York Yankees throws a pitch in the second inning during a spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 28, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
The most notable absence for the New York team remains ace pitcher Gerrit Cole, who is still recovering from an earlier elbow surgery and is currently on the 15-day injured list. Cole’s absence has been felt at the top of the rotation, particularly in high stakes matchups like this one against Boston.
Alongside Cole, fellow starter Carlos Rodon is also sidelined with an elbow issue, which further thins what was expected to be one of the MLB’s most dominant rotations. Another pitcher, Clarke Schmidt, remains on the 60-day injured list as he continues his recovery from elbow surgery as well. Schmidt’s absence leaves the Yankees without three projected rotation arms, which is concerning against a team like Boston. Despite these losses, New York has leaned heavily on emerging starters and depth pieces to keep the team afloat, which is a testament to their organizational pitching depth.
The New York Yankees Must Adjust to Cover Depth and Balance Their Lineup Against the Boston Red Sox
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 02: Cam Schlittler #31, Ryan McMahon #19, and Anthony Volpe #11 of the New York Yankees celebrate after McMahon caught a pop fly during the eighth inning against the Boston Red Sox in game three of the American League Wild Card Series at Yankee Stadium on October 02, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images)
On the position-player side, shortstop Anthony Volpe is currently on the 10-day injured list due to a shoulder issue. Volpe’s absence impacts both the Yankees’ defense and lineup balance as he provides speed and versatility at the top – and middle – of the order. There is optimism he could return sooner than anticipated, but for now the Yankees must continue to patch together their infield as they take on the Red Sox without Volpe and other key contributors.
Injury Report: New York Yankees’ Anthony Volpe, Gerrit Cole, Clarke Schmidt