Yankees Announce a Roster Move After Concerning Fernando Cruz Update

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated May 22, 2025 12:15 PM ET

The New York Yankees finally made the roster move Thursday that had been quietly brewing all week.

Right-hander Fernando Cruz was officially placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation, retroactive to May 19. The team made the announcement prior to their series finale against the Rangers, confirming what manager Aaron Boone had hinted at Wednesday night.

Cruz told reporters Thursday that an MRI showed no structural damage in his shoulder. The 34-year-old said he believes he can return to the mound in two weeks and even threw off flat ground earlier in the day. It’s a positive update for a reliever who had emerged as a reliable middle-inning option for New York before being shut down.

In a corresponding move, the Yankees recalled left-hander Brent Headrick from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The Athletic's Brendan Kuty was the first to report that Headrick would be called up to New York on Thursday. The lefty was spotted in the clubhouse before Thursday’s game and will wear No. 47.

The 26-year-old was claimed off waivers from the Twins during the offseason and has posted a 3.38 ERA in 10 appearances at Triple-A, striking out 25 batters over 21.1 innings. He gives the Yankees a second left-handed option alongside Tim Hill and could offer length out of the bullpen if needed.

Cruz had pitched to a 3.27 ERA across 11 innings before the injury, using his signature splitter to generate swings and misses in low-to-mid-leverage spots. With Ian Hamilton struggling and other arms still ramping up from injury, the Yankees will lean on Headrick to help stabilize a bullpen that continues to evolve.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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