The New York Yankees released their World Series roster ahead of Game One on Friday. They made a few changes from the American League Championship Series. Notably, Nestor Cortes is back in the mix, although he’s likely to be used out of the bullpen rather than starting. Also, utility infielder Jon Berti was left off the roster. Manager Aaron Boone revealed that Berti suffered a hip flexor injury while running the bases in Game Four of the ALCS.
Our 2024 #WorldSeries Roster. #RepBX pic.twitter.com/3WSe77iSRx
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) October 25, 2024
Yankees Release World Series Roster: Cortes In, Berti Out
In addition to Cortes, the Yankees will carry five other starters: Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, Luis Gil, and Marcus Stroman. Stroman was on the ALCS roster but did not see any action. While New York is carrying seven relievers, chances are at least some of the starters will be tapped for relief work in the series. Stroman and Cortes would be the likely choices in this regard. However, if the situation calls for it late in the series, at least one of Cole, Rodón, Schmidt, or Gil could come in from the bullpen.
Cortes is recovering from a left elbow flexor strain suffered in September. He told the media he expects to be used for one inning at a time, particularly for lefty-lefty matchups. However, he is ready to go longer if needed. In 31 games this year (30 starts), he was 9-10 with a 3.77 ERA and a 1.153 WHIP. He struck out 162 in 174 1/3 innings of work.
No Jon Berti makes more sense now pic.twitter.com/Rau4a0clWN
— Talkin’ Yanks (@TalkinYanks) October 25, 2024
Berti played more of a role than expected early in the postseason. He was used as both a pinch runner and defensive replacement, mostly at first base in Anthony Rizzo‘s absence. The Yankees will miss his (mostly) deft glove work and speed on the bases in the Fall Classic. Along with their 13 pitchers, the Yankees will carry two catchers, three infielders, six outfielders, and two utility players. Those two are Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Oswaldo Cabrera. Both should see time in the infield this series.
Photo Credit: © Sage Osentoski-Imagn Images
