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New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone was scheduled to receive a pacemaker on Wednesday.

He is taking an immediate leave of absence and will have the surgery at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa.

Aaron Boone Expects To Return In ‘Next Several Days’

The Yankees released a lengthy statement from the skipper, who turns 48 on March 9.

“As many of you know, I underwent open-heart surgery in 2009, and I wanted everyone to understand where I’m at regarding the procedure that’s taking place today,” Boone said. “Over the last six-to-eight weeks I’ve had mild symptoms of lightheadedness, low energy and shortness of breath. As a result, I underwent a series of tests and examinations in New York prior to the beginning of spring training, including multiple visits with a team of heart specialists. While the heart checkup came back normal, there were indications of a low heart rate which, after further consultations with doctors in Tampa, necessitates a pacemaker.

“My faith is strong, and my spirits are high. I’m in a great frame of mind because I know I’m in good hands with the doctors and medical staff here at St. Joseph’s Hospital. They are confident that today’s surgery will allow me to resume all of my usual professional and personal activities and afford me a positive long-term health prognosis without having to change anything about my way of life. I look forward to getting back to work in the next several days, but during my short-term absence, I have complete trust that our coaches, staff and players will continue their training and preparation at the same level as we’ve had and without any interruption.

“I also want to take this opportunity to remind all those dealing with heart issues to remain vigilant in your care and to reach out to your doctor should you have any symptoms of discomfort or trouble. Any issue involving the heart has the potential to be serious. Staying on top of your health is always the first and most important thing you can do for yourself and your family.”

Boone is entering his fourth season as New York’s manager. The Yankees were 33-27 during the abbreviated 2020 campaign following back-to-back 100-win seasons in 2018 (100-62) and 2019 (103-59). They lost to the Houston Astros in six games in the 2019 American League Championship Series.

“The thoughts of the entire organization are with Aaron and his family as he undergoes this procedure and takes the time he needs to properly heal,” Yankees managing general partner Hal Steinbrenner said in a statement. “Aaron leads our players, coaches and staff with a rare combination of work ethic, intelligence and a genuine concern for others. Our only priority at this time is Aaron’s health and well-being, and we will support him in every way throughout his recovery.”

The Yankees were scheduled to host the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday in their fourth game of spring training.

Bench coach Carlos Mendoza will assume the managerial duties in Boone’s absence, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said on Wednesday.



“He’s obviously running major league spring training right now, so he’s heavily running the show regardless,” Cashman said. “… The time frame as I know it (for Boone) could be as early as 48 to 72 hours, and if it takes later, so be it.”

New York opens the regular season with three games against the Blue Jays in the Bronx, starting on April 1.

–Field Level Media (@FieldLevelMedia)