Tyler Austin’s suspension reduced to four games

MLB has finally ruled on Tyler Austin’s suspension. This afternoon the Yankees announced Austin’s five-game suspension has been reduced to four games. He will begin serving it tomorrow. Joe Kelly’s six-game ban was not reduced.

The Yankees must play a man short while Austin is suspended, and since they’re carrying eight relievers, either a roster move is coming or the Yankees will play the next four games with a two-man bench. Not ideal. Neil Walker will presumably step in at first base.

If the Yankees do make a move, they won’t be able to call up Tyler Wade because of the ten-day rule. The only other healthy 40-man roster position player in the minors is Kyle Higashioka. I’m guessing the Yankees will ride it out with a two-man bench this weekend. We’ll see.

Update: I just remembered Brandon Drury is on the way back. He could be activated off the disabled list with a reliever going down at some point this weekend.