Yankees feared to have outbreak; game vs. Red Sox postponed

Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

Yankees feared to have COVID-19 outbreak; game against Red Sox postponed

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 7/15/21

The New York Yankees were supposed to open the second half of the 2021 MLB season hosting the rival Boston Red Sox on Thursday night.

It's now unknown when either club will next take the field.

Shortly after the Yankees canceled their batting practice due to alleged COVID-19 issues, multiple outlets reported Thursday's matchup was called off.

MLB insider Jon Heyman added the Yankees are dealing with a "major" coronavirus setback.

Yankees have multiple positives, causing the postponed. No one known to be symptomatic at this time. @Ken_Rosenthal 1st with news
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 15, 2021

While the Yankees reached the 85 percent vaccination threshold of tier 1 personnel not all their players were vaccinated.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 15, 2021

MLB later confirmed the game's postponement via a statement:

"Following positive COVID-19 tests within the New York Yankees organization, Thursday night's game between the Yankees and the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium has been postponed to allow for continued testing and contact tracing. Major League Baseball will continue to provide scheduling updates as available."

Ahead of Thursday's developments, the Yankees added left-handers Nestor Cortes and Wandy Peralta to the COVID-19 injured list. ESPN's Marly Rivera reports three total New York pitchers are currently on the coronavirus-related IL.

Cashman: “We have three positives and three pending.” The pendings are on rapid testing. All players.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) July 15, 2021

The Yankees endured a COVID-19 outbreak this spring, and The Associated Press (h/t ESPN) noted third-base coach Phil Nevin dealt with a serious coronavirus bout before he returned.

The Bronx Bombers went into the All-Star break at 46-43 and eight games back of the first-place Boston Red Sox (55-36) in the American League East standings. New York is scheduled to host Boston Friday through Sunday pending the results of additional COVID-19 testing.

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