The New York Yankees' injury woes continue today as team doctors have recommended season ending surgery for first baseman Mark Teixeira, after determining his torn tendon sheath has failed to heal.
The slugging first baseman, who also provides Gold Glove-caliber defense at the position, was limited to just 15 games in 2013 after injuring his wrist while taking batting practice this spring, in preparation for the World Baseball Classic.
He returned earlier this month, but was largely ineffective; he batted .151 with three home runs and 12 RBI. His on base percentage was at .270 and his slugging sat at .340, well below his career average of .545.
The newest round of tests became necessary after his wrist failed to respond to cortisone shots. Yankees GM Brian Cashman spoke to reporters on June 24th and said, "He's still sore, even after the shot. So our doctors are obviously working through it, trying to analyze the situation. It's clearly not a good situation."
In Teixeira's stead, the Yankees have leaned heavily on Lyle Overbay, who has batted .239 this season with eight home runs and 33 RBI. He filled in admirably early on, but has fallen apart in the last month. According to baseball-reference.com, in the last 28 days Overbay is batting a weak .196 with no home runs, three RBI, three walks and 18 strikeouts.
With Teixeira out for the season, the Yankees may need to look outside the organization for a cavalry. Kevin Youkilis, a free agent signing intended to replace Alex Rodriguez at third base, has plenty of experience there but is also sidelined with lower back troubles.
Regular designated hitter against right-handers Travis Hafner also has experience playing first base, but is no longer considered a candidate to play the field. He has a detailed injury history, and as desperate as the Bombers are, they can ill afford another bat to hit the DL.
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