The New York Yankees are off to a mediocre start to the 2022 season. Yankees fans have vented their frustration with the team. New York recently endured a very underwhelming performance against the Baltimore Orioles, a team they expect to defeat. Nonetheless, there have been a few bright spots. Oft-injured outfielder Aaron Hicks is off to a nice start to the 2022 campaign, and superstars Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton have flashed MVP potential. But it is pitcher Nestor Cortes who has begun to win the hearts of Yankees fans.

Cortes recently struck out 12 hitters in a loss against the Orioles. Despite the defeat in Baltimore, Cortes displayed that his strong 2021 performance was not a fluke. The 27-year old was never regarded as a top prospect. But he has been a diamond in the rough for the Yankees. 

Nestor Cortes sent out the following inspirational message following his career performance.

“For the kids out there that dont believe. Trust me it is really worth obligating yourself to be the best version of yourself. That holds a lot if weight. And I can’t thank enough the support staff and the fans for always making me bring the best out of myself”

Cortes seems to be in the right mindset. He is working hard while staying humble and the results are speaking for themselves. The Yankees entered the season with pitching concerns, but Cortes's effort has helped alleviate some of those issues.

Nestor Cortes will aim to keep rolling as the 2022 season moves forward.