Yankees Place Cruz, Wells on IL; Wells Back Soon

The New York Yankees have placed reliever Fernando Cruz on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain sustained during a pregame workout, marking his second IL stint this season after previous shoulder inflammation. Cruz, who has a 3.00 ERA and an MLB-leading 41.2% strikeout rate among relievers, will miss at least two weeks, impacting the Yankees' bullpen depth. To fill the roster void, the Yankees recalled right-hander Geoff Hartlieb from Triple-A and designated infielder CJ Alexander for assignment. Catcher Austin Wells is also temporarily sidelined with a circulation issue in his left finger, but medical tests have ruled out serious concerns and he is expected to return by Wednesday. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted the importance of team depth and the opportunity for other players to step up. The Yankees are hopeful both Cruz and Wells will rejoin the roster soon to aid their postseason aspirations.