Throughout 2012 and early 2013, the New York Yankees saw big injuries happen to big-name players. Spring Training 2013 begins on Saturday, February 16, and the Yankees are counting on those big names to come back strong and push the team into the postseason once again. Here is an update on the injuries to the Yankee’s key players.

Derek Jeter – SS

The most devastating injury occurred at the most inopportune time. Derek Jeter had surgery to repair the broken ankle he suffered in the 2012 ALCS. Prognosis was that he would miss the beginning of the 2013 regular season. However, Jeter’s surgery was highly successful, and he began workouts on January 28. All indications are now that Jeter will join the team shortly after Spring Training begins and make the Opening Day lineup.

Michael Pineda -- SP

The Yankees traded highly-touted catching prospect Jesus Montero for starting pitcher Michael Pineda before the 2012 season in hopes that Pineda would shore up the starting rotation. Pineda tore his right anterior labral and missed the entire season. He began to throw softly in late January and could return to action mid-season, likely beginning in the minors.

Mariano Rivera – RP

Without Raphael Soriano’s performance as closer, the loss of Mariano Rivera last May might have buried the Yankees. Many wondered if he would ever pitch again. Rivera began throwing in early January and expects be fully recovered and ready for Spring Training. He may very likely start the season on the active roster, filling a huge void after Soriano left via free agency.

Alex Rodriguez – 3B

The postponement of Alex Rodriguez’s surgery to repair his hip until January 16 also postponed his potential return until the All-Star break. MLB.com’s Paul Casella reports that A-Rod could possibly miss the entire season – all of this as new speculation of PED use has arisen. The Yankees signed Kevin Youkilis to fill in, but Youkilis may now become the full-time third baseman.

CC Sabathia – SP

Ace starter CC Sabathia had surgery on his throwing elbow very early in the offseason. It did not appear very serious, and all indications are that he will be ready to open Spring Training on schedule. He resumed throwing in mid-January. He should once again be the Opening Day starter barring any complications.

The Yankees have their share of injuries, but it appears that most of their big-name players are getting healthier and will not miss much regular-season action if any at all.

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