Injury Update: Michael Pineda Suffers Yet Another Setback

Apr 23, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Michael Pineda (35) reacts after being ejected for using a foreign substance during the second inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

What has become more of a running joke now than an injury status, New York Yankees’ pitcher Michael Pineda has been shutdown yet again according to Danny Knobler of ESPN NY. While preparing to play catch earlier today, doctors found more inflammation in the right-hander’s pitching shoulder. Pineda will remain resting for at least another week, and barring any further setbacks, will again attempt to begin a throwing program. This latest stumbling block will no doubt guarantee that Pineda will not return to the Yankees until at least August.

In 19 2/3 innings so far this season, Pineda is 2-2 with a 1.83 ERA. Pineda had won the fifth starter’s job for the Yankees out of spring training, beating out the likes of David Phelps, Vidal Nuno, and Adam Warren–with Phelps and Nuno currently serving as fill-ins in the starting rotation, and Warren having been discussed recently.

Trouble started for Pineda when pine tar was spotted on his body against the Red Sox at Yankee Stadium, and in his next start, he was ejected for having pine tar on his person. During a “stay sharp” session during his suspension, he injured his right pitching shoulder, and has suffered numerous setbacks since.