Yankees' James Paxton has injury setback in return from flexor strain

When it comes to injuries, the New York Yankees just can't seem to catch a break. 

Yankees manager Aaron Boone revealed Thursday that James Paxton has suffered a setback in his return from a strained left flexor tendon, according to The Associated Press (h/t ESPN). 

Paxton hasn't played since Aug. 20 and underwent an MRI for elbow and forearm discomfort after a game against the Tampa Bay Rays. It was determined that he didn't need Tommy John surgery, but that he would miss some time.

During spring training, Paxton underwent lumbar surgery to remove a peridiscal cyst. He completed a full rehab but hasn't been the same pitcher since.

With Paxton sidelined, Gerrit Cole and Masahiro Tanaka are scheduled to start against the Baltimore Orioles in a doubleheader on Friday. New York has lost 15 of its last 21 games, so Paxton's extended absence certainly is going to cause more issues for the Yankees moving forward. 

If the Yankees reach the playoffs, and Paxton isn't ready to return, Deivi Garcia, J.A. Happ and Jordan Montgomery likely will handle the pitching duties in his absence. 

New York has been stymied by injuries this season. Both Luis Severino and Tommy Kahnle are out after having Tommy John surgery and the batting order is missing Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Gio Urshela. 

If the Yankees miss the playoffs, it'll be the first time since 2016 and third time in the last seven years.