The past week has been filled with adventures for veteran starting pitcher J.A. Happ, who went from getting traded to the New York Yankees to suddenly coming under the weather after contracting hand, foot and mouth disease.
Just nine days ago, New York Mets ace Noah Syndergaard was diagnosed with the disease, which typically affects young children. It's a virus that leaves fever-like symptoms, and usually leads to visible bumps and blisters.
The 36-year-old was acquired by the Yankees in a trade with the Toronto Blue Jays last week in exchange for Brandon Drury and prospect Billy McKinney. The illness likely won't keep Happ out long-term, and he should be able to join the Yankees again in the next couple of weeks. Those who come under with hand, foot and mouth disease usually recover in 7-10 days, according to WPRO.
In his first start with the Yankees last week, Happ went six innings against the Kansas City Royals, allowing just one earned run while striking out two. The Yankees won 6-3, but Happ will now have to wait a bit until he can make his next start for the Pinstripes.
The Yankees entered play on Wednesday five games behind the Boston Red Sox for first in the American League East. However, the Bronx Bombers have four games in hand, and the two foes open up a four-game set at Fenway Park on Thursday.
Adding Happ was a vital move for a Yankees team that lost starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery for the season as he required Tommy John surgery. With Sonny Gray struggling and Masahiro Tanaka battling multiple injuries, the addition of Happ only bolsters New York's depth in the rotation.
For now, the Yankees just need Happ to rest and recover well, then come back as they try to win their first division title in six years.