By WFAN.com
In Aaron Boone's first manager's report with WFAN's Mike Francesa on Wednesday afternoon, the Yankees skipper started things out on a sour note, confirming that pitcher Jordan Montgomery has an elbow injury that should sideline him for at least a month.
"He's got a flexor strain, which means he's not going to be able to even throw anything probably for two or three weeks," Boone said. "And then by the time you ramp him back up, it's probably more of a six- to eight-week type injury."
The Yankees placed Montgomery on the 10-day DL Thursday.
Boone, however, said he believes in Domingo Germán and what he can contribute to the fifth spot in the rotation during Montgomery's absence.
"We'll go with Germán in the short term, and frankly, I have a lot of confidence in him," Boone said.
Besides the injury news, Boone said he's been pleased with how the team has managed to compile a 19-10 record at this point, especially considering the tough schedule they've been up against lately.
"Just grinding through this stretch of 18 in a row, trying to keep guys fresh as much as I can," Boone said. He added that he is "proud of the guys" and that they are "gamers."
Not only that, but many of his star players have been playing like stars. Specifically Didi Gregorius, who took home AL Player of the Month honors Wednesday.
When asked about Aroldis Chapman, Boone said, "The slider has become an absolute factor for him." He added, "He's in a good spot right now."
Regarding Luis Severino, Boone had nothing but compliments for the young ace.
"One thing I love about him is that he's really driven to be great," Boone said. "He's not satisfied with the year he had last year. He wants to continue to build on that, and I think he wants to be the guy we look to as the ace of this staff," Boone said.
And after just a handful of games with Gleyber Torres at second base, Boone told Francesa that the rookie is "a difference-maker for us."
Boone also said that he's confident Brett Gardner and Neil Walker will find their offensive grooves, and that for Giancarlo Stanton, it's just about figuring out a routine that works.
To listen to the full interview, click on the audio player above.
