James Paxton Could Return to Yankees Rotation This Week After Feeling Good Day After Simulated Game

The Yankees "will they-won't they" with James Paxton over the past few weeks has been a bit infurating, though we've tried to remain optimistic.

Nearly every step of the way, we've heard that he felt "fine" before eventually being informed that he also felt "something in his knee."

Friday's update seemed to be the most worrisome; Paxton dominated a four-inning simulated game, but also reported that his knee pain lingered, and he'd "have to do something" about it if Saturday was bleaker.

Turns out, he may have gotten through that 24-hour hump without being further impacted; Paxton feels good enough, and still believes he'll slot into the Yankees' rotation during their upcoming home stand.

For those keeping track, that includes a three-game set with the San Diego Padres beginning on Monday, and a four-game tilt with the Boston Red Sox, a team Paxton earned his pinstripes against earlier in 2019 with a dominant outing (eight innings, two hits, 12 Ks).

This may have been the biggest morning yet of Paxton's rehab; even if the rest of this first half includes a bulky knee brace, the Yankees would certainly rather Big Maple be on the mound than in the clubhouse.