Yankees send Fernando Cruz to IL, sign Michael Fulmer

August 26, 2026 - 22:51

The New York Yankees are dealing with another blow to their pitching staff, as reliever Fernando Cruz has been placed on the injured list. The move comes as the team looks to stabilize a bullpen that has already seen its share of wear and tear this season. To fill the open spot on the roster, the Yankees have signed veteran right-hander Michael Fulmer to a major league deal.

Cruz, who was acquired in a trade earlier this year, has been a key piece in the middle innings. His ability to miss bats with a sharp splitter made him a valuable option for manager Aaron Boone. The nature of his injury has not been fully disclosed, but the team is calling it a right shoulder issue. There is no firm timeline for his return, which leaves a gap in the setup group.

Fulmer, a former Rookie of the Year winner with Detroit, has not pitched in the majors since 2023. He spent last season recovering from elbow surgery and has been working out on his own. The Yankees are hoping he can provide depth and experience, even if he is not the same overpowering arm he once was. At his best, Fulmer was a reliable starter and later a solid reliever. The team will likely ease him into low-leverage spots at first, then see how he responds.

This is not the first time the Yankees have had to patch things together. Their rotation has already lost several starters, and now the bullpen is taking hits too. The front office has been aggressive in adding arms, but the results have been mixed. Fulmer is a low-risk gamble who could pay off if his stuff plays up in short bursts.

For now, the Yankees will lean on their existing relievers to cover the innings Cruz would have handled. The hope is that Fulmer can regain some of his old form and give the team another reliable option down the stretch. If he does not work out, the club can simply move on without much cost. But if he does, this could be a quiet move that helps steady a shaky unit.