Injured Yankees shortstop Gregorius could miss rest of season

New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius has torn cartilage in his right wrist, jeopardizing his availability for the rest of the season and postseason, manager Aaron Boone announced Sunday.

New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius has torn cartilage in his right wrist, jeopardizing his availability for the rest of the season and postseason, manager Aaron Boone announced Sunday.

Gregorius injured his wrist while sliding headfirst into home plate Saturday. The 28-year-old has been an important component of the Yankees' offense and defense this year and is hitting .268 with 27 home runs, 86 RBIs and 10 stolen bases in 132 games.

Boone said the team was holding out hope that Gregorius could be ready for the postseason. The Yankees likely will face the Oakland Athletics in the win-or-go-home American League wild-card game.

"We'll know a lot more in a few days and see how this response to the cortisone shot," Boone said.

Gregorius will try to stay patient in the meantime.

"It's really frustrating," he said. "They're going to take it a day today and see how far it goes. I have some movement in there. They say things like this happen to other players, but some of them play through it. I'll see day to day how it goes, and if it feels better, I'll be back in there so we can make that playoff decision.

"[His optimism] is still high. I have motion in it now. I had a cortisone shot and I'm feeling better."

Infielder Adeiny Hechavarria started at shortstop in place of Gregorius on Sunday. Teammate Gleyber Torres also can play the position.

"Didi's a great player and obviously I think everyone in this room understands how important he is to our team," Boone said. "[He's] kind of an anchor for us defensively in the infield, and obviously what he brings from the left side of the plate. So, we'll cross that bridge when we get there, but hopefully, we get some good news here in a few days."