BOSTON — Yankees catcher Kyle Higashioka caught top pitching prospect Deivi Garcia once at Triple-A and had a few observations.
“He was OK. Struggled with his command,” Higashioka said before the Yankees’ 9-5 loss to the Red Sox on Saturday at Fenway Park. “I think he was still getting used to the ball. He’s only made a few starts.
“Last year it was difficult for me adjusting from the ball there to here, so that’s what guys are facing now when they go from Double-A to Triple-A. The minor league ball last year was softer on the outside and the seams were raised more. It’s easier to get a grip. With this ball, it’s tougher and you have to get used to the feel.
“He’s got the stuff. I can tell. I’m sure it’s just an adjustment. He’s got great stuff. He’s got a ton of confidence, which is a really good thing for him.’’
Dellin Betances and Luis Severino played catch in left field before Saturday’s game and increased the number of throws from 90 feet from 5 to 10 with pitching coach Larry Rothschild observing.
Betances will resume playing catch on Monday, and Boone said there is a chance the right-handed reliever, who hasn’t pitched in the big leagues this season due to a shoulder impingement and a lat problem in the area, could throw off a mound this coming week.
“Dellin should hopefully be on the mound sometime next week or this home stand,’’ said Boone — whose team plays host to the Diamondbacks on Tuesday and Wednesday, has a day off Thursday, then hosts the Red Sox for a three-game series starting Friday. “And [Severino] closely after that. Seems so far they are both on track.’’
Though neither pitcher has worked a major league game this year, Boone expects the right-handers to get off the IL at some point. Severino is dealing with a lat issue, too.
“I look at them as being part of the mix,’’ said Boone, who might use Severino out of the bullpen if there isn’t enough time to build him up as a full-time starter. “We are a ways off from that but we do understand those are two dynamic pitchers and have a chance to really impact us. We are hoping it continues to go like it is right now. If that is the case, the timeline should allow them to get back and play a role for us.’’
Jonathan Loaisiga has been out since May 13, but he is getting closer to returning from a strained right shoulder. Boone said the right-hander will start a minor league rehab assignment. If Loaisiga stays healthy, he would be used in the pen.
— Additional reporting by Dan Martin
