Yankees scratch Ryan Weathers’ start after he loses 9 pounds to illness – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
New York — Ryan Weathers shed nine pounds in just two days from a punishing viral infection that left him bedridden and prompted the Yankees to pull him from Thursday’s scheduled start against the Texas Rangers.[1][2] The left-hander described vomiting for hours after his previous outing and spiking a 102-degree fever the following day. Manager Aaron Boone opted for caution to protect Weathers’ arm health as the team navigates a demanding schedule.
The Illness Hits Hard and Fast
Weathers first noticed symptoms during his start against the Baltimore Orioles on Saturday. He gutted out five innings, allowing three runs — only one earned — in a 9-4 Yankees victory.[3] Upon returning home, the ordeal intensified. “I pitched, then went home and pretty much threw my guts out for several hours,” Weathers recounted. “I thought I just had food poisoning, but woke up the next day and was running a 102 [degree] temp.”[1]
The pitcher remained bedridden through Monday, unable to eat or drink much of anything. Dehydration set in quickly, leading to the dramatic weight loss. By Wednesday, he received an IV drip, played catch and completed a full workout. “I lost nine pounds in two days; couldn’t really eat anything, couldn’t drink anything. I got an IV today and felt a lot better,” he said.[1] Weathers emphasized that his arm felt strong despite the setback, calling it one of the weirder sicknesses he had endured.
Paul Blackburn Steps Up for Thursday
With Weathers sidelined, right-hander Paul Blackburn drew the assignment for the series finale at Yankee Stadium. The 32-year-old has posted a 3.21 ERA over 14 relief innings this season, marking his first start since four outings with the Mets last June.[3] The Yankees lost the previous game in the set 6-1, with Will Warren surrendering six runs in four innings.
Boone expressed confidence in the adjustment. The move underscores the team’s depth amid a rotation that ranks second in the majors with a 2.98 ERA through Wednesday.[3] Carlos Rodón nears his season debut Sunday against the Brewers, while Gerrit Cole could rejoin later in the month.
Weathers’ Steady Presence in the Rotation
Acquired from the Miami Marlins in the offseason, Weathers has anchored a spot in New York’s starting five. Through seven outings this year, he holds a 2-2 record with a 3.03 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 45 strikeouts over 38 2/3 innings.[4][3] He has limited opponents to two earned runs or fewer in five of those appearances.
Prior seasons brought injury challenges, including a forearm strain and lat issue in 2025 that limited him to eight starts overall. A finger problem sidelined him in 2024. This spring, despite a rough exhibition slate, the Yankees locked him into the rotation amid absences for Cole and Rodón.[4] Weathers entered 2026 with added velocity that had fueled sleeper hype.
Quick Recovery Path Ahead
Weathers plans a bullpen session Friday in Milwaukee before rejoining the rotation Monday against the Orioles. “I feel good now. Obviously, I wish I could throw tomorrow, but we just deemed it not worth it to risk my arm health,” he noted.[3] Boone confirmed the southpaw would slide right back into his slot.
The episode highlights the physical toll of the sport, where even a brief illness can derail momentum. Yet for a Yankees staff leaning on emerging arms like Weathers alongside veterans, such resilience proves vital. As the season progresses, his return could stabilize an already formidable group.
In a league where health often dictates success, Weathers’ swift rebound offers optimism. The Yankees, clinging to their rotation edge, press on with Blackburn handling the immediate load.
