James Paxton

James Paxton (back) throwing simulated innings in preparation for Yankees' season

New York Yankees starting pitcher James Paxton has progressed in his rehabilitation process enough that he's been able to pitch some simulated innings, according to general manager Brian Cashman.

What It Means:

Paxton underwent a microscopic lumbar discectomy on February 5 to remove a cyst near his spine. The original time frame for a full recovery was 3-4 months, and it seems as though he's on track to meet that. However, the MLB season never started due to the coronavirus, and even if baseball were to come back this season, it wouldn't be until at least July. So it seems as though Paxton won't miss any time after surgery, which would be a fortunate break for the Yankees.

In 150.2 innings across 29 starts last season, Paxton had a 3.82 ERA with 186 strikeouts and a 1.28 WHIP.