Nestor Cortes faced a challenging return to The Bronx, where he was once a fan favorite during his time with the New York Yankees. The left-handed pitcher, who had a breakout season in 2021, found himself struggling to find his rhythm against a lineup that was all too familiar with his pitching style. After the game, which saw the Yankees capitalize on his mistakes, Cortes pointed to a straightforward yet significant reason for his subpar performance: the Yankees know him better than any other team in Major League Baseball. This knowledge gave them an edge, allowing them to exploit weaknesses that other teams might not have been able to identify.
Cortes’ struggles were evident throughout the game, as the Yankees effectively timed his pitches and capitalized on his tendency to leave balls over the plate. The Bronx crowd, previously a source of support, turned into a venue where Cortes felt the weight of high expectations and scrutiny. Each hit taken off him felt like a harsh reminder of the bond he once shared with the team and the fans, making it all the more difficult to regain his footing. The irony of facing a team that he once helped contribute to their successes now turned into a nightmare scenario, as he found himself unable to replicate the form that had made him a standout performer in previous seasons.
Moreover, the psychological aspect of the game cannot be overlooked. Returning to a stadium where he had celebrated triumphs and shared unforgettable moments, Cortes was likely burdened by the pressure to perform. The Yankees had not only studied him but also built a game plan around his pitching tendencies, which reflected their in-depth knowledge of his abilities. This intimate understanding of his mechanics and strategies added another layer of complexity to an already challenging outing. As he struggled to adapt and adjust, the gap between his former success and current difficulties became increasingly pronounced, creating an uphill battle for the pitcher.
As Cortes left Yankee Stadium after the game, he was undoubtedly reflecting on the lessons learned from this difficult experience. His acknowledgment of the Yankees' familiarity with his pitching serves as a reminder of the constant evolution required in professional sports. Moving forward, Cortes will need to reassess his approach and find ways to reinvent himself on the mound, especially when facing teams that know him so well. This moment could serve as both a setback and an opportunity for growth, pushing him to refine his skills and develop new tactics that can help him regain his status as a formidable pitcher in the league. As he prepares for future outings, the resilience he demonstrates will be crucial in overcoming this challenging chapter in his career.
Nestor Cortes knows exactly why his former Yankees teammates crushed him in ‘brutal’ Bronx return - New York Post
