Yankees Activate Max Fried Early for Doubleheader Against Pirates The New York Yankees have accelerated the return of left-handed ace Max Fried from the injured list, scheduling him to pitch in the second game of their day-night doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday. Fried, who has been sidelined since May 14 due to a left elbow bone bruise, will make his first appearance since his injury ahead of the scheduled game. The decision comes after Tuesday’s matchup against the Pirates was postponed due to inclement weather, prompting the Yankees to adjust their pitching plans. Fried, a three-time All-Star, was initially set to begin a second minor league rehab start on Wednesday. However, the rescheduling of the game allowed the Yankees to move him into the major league rotation earlier than planned. Manager Aaron Boone emphasized the strategic value of the move, stating, “That sets us up from a starting standpoint in Philadelphia and beyond. Max was way on board with it. I think it makes a ton of sense and we can continue to build him this way.” Fried’s return marks a significant step in his recovery, as he had been working his way back from the injury. The 32-year-old left-hander is 4-3 with a 3.21 ERA in 10 starts this season for the Yankees. His most recent rehab outing, a three-inning appearance for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on May 18, saw him allow two runs and five hits while striking out three batters. He threw 52 pitches, 32 for strikes, during that outing. Boone also noted that Fried would make at least one more minor league start before rejoining the big league rotation, ensuring he is fully prepared for the demands of the majors. However, the Yankees’ plans shifted when the postponed game was rescheduled as part of their four-day doubleheader span.#new_york_yankees #pittsburgh_pirates #aaron_boone #triple_a_scrantonwilkes_barre #max_fried
Yankees' Randal Grichuk Added to Big-League Roster The New York Yankees have activated Randal Grichuk for the 2026 season by selecting his contract from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday. The move officially adds the outfielder to the major league roster, marking his return to the big club after a stint in the minors. Grichuk, who spent the spring training as a non-roster invitee, will primarily serve as a reserve player but is expected to contribute in limited appearances, particularly against left-handed pitching. Grichuk’s role with the Yankees will likely involve situational matchups, given his track record as a platoon player. While he did not showcase significant offensive production during spring training, his inclusion suggests the team sees value in his ability to handle left-handed hitters. The decision aligns with the Yankees’ strategy of utilizing depth in the outfield while managing their regular-season roster. The outfielder’s path to the majors has been marked by periodic call-ups and demotions. After being traded to the Royals in 2025, Grichuk faced challenges in securing a regular spot, often sitting on the bench or appearing in limited games. His recent move to the Yankees reflects a renewed opportunity to establish himself in the lineup. Grichuk’s addition also provides flexibility for the Yankees’ coaching staff, allowing them to manage the outfield rotation without overcommitting to a full-time role. His potential contributions could be most impactful in games featuring left-handed starters, where his batting average and on-base percentage historically perform better. The Yankees’ decision to activate Grichuk underscores their focus on balancing experience with the need for depth.#new_york_yankees #randal_grichuk #triple_a_scrantonwilkes_barre #american_league #outfielder
