New York Yankees star right fielder Juan Soto is experiencing inflammation in his left forearm, manager Aaron Boone announced on Friday.
Soto underwent an MRI on Friday after being pulled from Thursday night’s game against the Minnesota Twins due to forearm discomfort. The MRI revealed only inflammation, and Boone is optimistic that Soto will not require a stint on the injured list.
Soto is absent from the starting lineup for the Yankees’ series opener against the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers. Aaron Judge will take over in right field, with Trent Grisham playing center field and batting eighth.
However, Boone mentioned that Soto might be available off the bench on Friday or could return later in the three-game weekend series.
In addition to the MRI, Soto also had his left elbow tested, which showed no ligament damage. Despite the discomfort, Soto remarked that it doesn’t affect his ability to throw or hit but causes soreness with other arm movements. In Thursday’s 8-5 win against the Twins, Soto left the game following a 56-minute rain delay. Aaron Judge moved to left field, and Alex Verdugo took over in left.
Soto, 25, has been performing exceptionally well this season, hitting .318 with 17 home runs and 53 RBIs. He was acquired by the Yankees in December from the San Diego Padres and has made a significant impact in his first season with the team. A three-time All-Star, Soto had started every game this season before his recent injury.
