The New York Yankees will welcome back All-Star catcher Gary Sanchez on Saturday from the injured list after he missed more than two weeks with a groin strain.
New York activated its star catcher from the 10-day injured list before its divisional matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays. The team sent down backup catcher Kyle Higashioka in a corresponding move.
Sanchez’s return to the lineup will be a boost for a team seeking more power in the heart of the batting order. He will return to an outstanding .807 OPS with 24 home runs and 58 RBI in 77 games this season.
Given the Yankees currently hold a 9.5 game lead over the Tampa Bay Rays in the division, the team could give Sanchez extra off days in the coming weeks to make sure he is fully healthy for the playoffs.