Tommy Kahnle Working to Beat Timeline for Crucial Spring Return to Yankees

Tommy Kahnle is not hurt, he is “just behind”. Unfortunately, that’s not a relief for those expecting to see Kahnle back in the Bronx. Sure, he has his recovery period and the fans wish him a speedy return to the field, but one question stands. Will he be ready to throw on Opening Day?

This is no doubt a crucial period for the Yankees. 2024 seemingly is the time to heal from the injuries of the past (literally and figuratively speaking). For that to happen, Kahnle’s dominance is needed back in action, but not even manager Aaron Boone was sure about it. The Bombers’ skipper said, “We’ll see, I think he’ll be ready”. So as it stands:

Can Tommy Kahnle Beat the Clock and Return for the Season Opener?

The New York Yankees faithful hoping to see flamethrower Tommy Kahnle back in pinstripes for Opening Day might be in for disappointment. On one hand, Kahnle himself remains optimistic, on the other, his recent comments and progress paint a picture of a race against time. Will he be fully prepared for the crucial final weeks of Spring Training? Or will he not be ready for the Opening Day for the second straight year?

Per Bryan Hoch’s report, Kahnle is “behind in his buildup” and has yet to participate in a single Spring Training game. This delay sprouts from shoulder inflammation that lingered longer than it should have. But just because “It feels good [now]. No pain, no nothing”, does it really mean that he is ready?

Although Kahnle assures that there is “nothing structural” about his shoulder issue, the missed time has undoubtedly impacted his readiness for the forthcoming season. The veteran addressed his availability on Opening Day. While he did not rule out the possibility of him being ready, he did state, “It’s trending that way“, admitting sitting at the beginning. Perhaps he will be seen in the first week of the regular season?

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Kahnle’s Delayed Return Could Punch a Blow to the Yankees’ Bullpen and Championship Hopes

The sooner he recovers and returns, the better it would be. After all, the Yankees, already dealing with injury concerns in their pitching rotation, would benefit greatly from a healthy Kahnle. His presence would undoubtedly bolster the bullpen that heavily relied on him during their strong 2023 run. His stats last season were where he compiled a 2.66 ERA over 40.2 innings pitched. In order to be back at it, the 34-year-old must beat time.

Read More: Tommy Kahnle’s Opening Day Status Still Uncertain as Yankees Await Recovery

Yes, time is of the essence here. And Kahnle remains focused on making a comeback as soon as possible. Whether he can outrun his delayed start and be an important piece of puzzle for the Yankees remains uncertain. The coming weeks will be key in determining his availability in the initial period for the Yankees. But in the thick of uncertainties, will his absence hinder the team’s championship aspirations?