Nestor Cortes may be making a return to the New York Yankees’ roster ahead of a potential World Series appearance, as the team leads the American League Championship Series against Cleveland 2-0.

The left-handed pitcher participated in a batting practice session on Wednesday at Yankee Stadium, allowing the team to gauge his recovery. Cortes has been sidelined since September 18 due to a strain in his pitching elbow.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism regarding Cortes’ chances of rejoining the team, stating, “I think he’s at least a realistic option. Not saying for sure, but the timeline lines up to where if things go well, he could definitely be an option.”

Cortes sports a record of 9-10 with a 3.77 earned run average for the season. He might conduct another batting practice session this weekend, providing the Yankees with crucial information on his readiness before the World Series kicks off, expected between October 22 and 25.

Boone highlighted that while Cortes has progress to make, his recovery has been promising. He noted, “He’s got steps to go and he’s got to continue to feel good and bounce back and things like that, but the way it’s gone to this point has been encouraging.”

The Yankees are set to continue their series against Cleveland on Thursday, which is critical for their path to the championship.