Yankees News: When Will Aaron Boone Return From Surgery?

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced that he is taking a leave of absence to receive a pacemaker. The 47-year-old is set to undergo surgery Wednesday at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, Florida.

Boone underwent open-heart surgery in March 2009 when he was a third baseman for the Houston Astros. He went on to play 10 games that year in what would be the final season of his playing career.

“Over the last six-to-eight weeks I’ve had mild symptoms of lightheadedness, low energy and shortness of breath,” Boone said in a statement. “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.”

The news comes three days after the Yankees played their first spring training game. MLB’s Opening Day is scheduled for April 1 with New York set to host the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Yankees didn’t give a timetable for Boone’s return, though it sounds like the manager plans to be back on the bench well before New York starts playing meaningful games.

“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,” Boone said in his statement, noting that his doctors are confident that the surgery will allow him to all of his usual activities.

The Yankees are the favorites to win the American League pennant.