Yankees’ Cousins Faces Extended Absence After Injury

New York Yankees reliever Jake Cousins is moving toward Tommy John surgery after multiple rehab setbacks from a flexor and UCL injury, a procedure that would sideline him for the remainder of 2025 and possibly all of 2026. Cousins, who posted a 2.37 ERA in 2024, was expected to help stabilize a Yankees bullpen that has struggled since May. The injury increases urgency for the team to seek bullpen reinforcements ahead of the trade deadline, and they are reportedly considering a trade for resurgent White Sox starter Adrian Houser. Other injured Yankees, like Giancarlo Stanton and Luis Gil, are nearing returns, providing hope for a roster heavily impacted by injuries, including Gerrit Cole's own Tommy John recovery. The loss of Cousins could significantly influence offseason roster decisions. Despite these challenges, the Yankees remain atop the American League East and face crucial decisions to maintain their lead.