Astros, Yankees Pitchers Take Key Injury Recovery Steps

The Houston Astros are hopeful for a stronger second half of the season as starting pitcher Spencer Arrighetti is set to throw his first off-the-mound side sessions following a thumb injury, marking a significant step toward his return. Arrighetti had shown promise as a rookie with 171 strikeouts and a 4.53 ERA last season, and though he managed only 9.2 innings this year before his injury, his comeback could bolster an Astros pitching staff currently depleted by multiple injuries. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees are also anticipating the return of a key pitcher, Luis Gil, who threw live batting practice for the first time since a high-grade lat strain and is on track to rejoin the team by late July or early August. Gil, last year's American League Rookie of the Year, had a breakout season with 15 wins and a 3.50 ERA, and his return is expected to strengthen the Yankees’ pitching rotation. Additionally, veteran Paul Goldschmidt made his first career pinch-running appearance for the Yankees, scoring a go-ahead run in a comeback win, exemplifying his team-first attitude and contributing to the Yankees’ competitive efforts. Both teams are navigating injury challenges but remain optimistic about the impact of these players returning to form.