Domingo Germán, the celebrated New York Yankees pitcher who earned his place in baseball history by pitching a perfect game in June, voluntarily entered an inpatient treatment program for alcohol issues, the team revealed. Consequently, Germán has been listed on the MLB’s restricted roster.
According to Yankees general manager Brian Cashman, Germán has had previous battles with alcohol, and a “new situation” developed on Tuesday. Without divulging the specifics, Cashman described it as a “significant concern.”
Cashman conveyed his concern for Germán’s well-being, “The steps being taken today are aimed at ensuring his wellness for the rest of his life. At this point, my concern is for him and his immediate family,” he stated in a pre-game briefing before the match against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday.
The return of Germán to the mound this season seems unlikely, as per Cashman. He added, “His priority right now is dealing with the pressing issues.”
In June, Germán, aged 30, marked his name in the record book by pitching the MLB’s first perfect game in nearly a decade during the Yankees’ impressive 11-0 victory over the Oakland Athletics.
This achievement was the 24th perfect game in the history of the major league and the first since Félix Hernández of the Seattle Mariners pitched one against the Rays on August 15, 2012.
Earlier this week, Germán pitched against the Tampa Bay Rays as a reliever after being pulled from the starting lineup. He pitched five scoreless innings in the team’s 5-1 loss.
With a 5-7 record and a 4.56 ERA in 19 starts this season, Germán has demonstrated his skills on the mound.
The Yankees supported Germán’s decision, saying, “Domingo must concentrate fully on his health and recovery. As he embarks on this journey, we will respect his privacy.”
Despite the personal challenges that Germán is facing, his past performances, including his historic perfect game, have shown his remarkable talent and contribution to the sport. His decision to address his issues speaks volumes about his commitment to health and well-being. As he takes a break from the pitch to focus on recovery, fans and teammates alike, wish him a successful journey to sobriety and hope to see his triumphant return to the game.
