Yankees Shut Down Contract Talks, Re-sign Former Star.

Yankees Shut Down Contract Talks, Re-sign Former Star.

Good morning, Yankees fans! The team’s pitching staff could certainly use a boost, especially after New York made a few surprising roster moves ahead of their series with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

First, the unexpected news: JT Brubaker‘s rib injury is more serious than initially believed, and he’s been placed on the 60-day injured list. Additionally, closer Devin Williams has been placed on the paternity list, meaning he’ll be unavailable for a few days.

To address the bullpen’s shortfall, the Yankees have brought back former standout reliever Adam Ottavino on a MLB contract, and he will join the team immediately. Yankees Shut Down Contract Talks, Re-sign Former Star.

Ottavino had a strong 2019 season with the Yankees but struggled during the shortened 2020 season. He was then traded to the Boston Red Sox ahead of the 2021 season as part of a salary dump, along with pitching prospect Frank German and $850K. During spring training, Ottavino opted out of his contract with the Red Sox after learning he wouldn’t make the Opening Day roster.

With Williams temporarily sidelined, Luke Weaver is expected to take over as the team’s closer. While Ottavino does offer high-leverage experience, his recent performance with the New York Mets has been marred by issues with walks and home runs.

In 2019, Ottavino posted an impressive 1.90 ERA with 88 strikeouts over 66 1/3 innings, though he struggled with walks (5.4 BB/9) and allowed five home runs. His struggles became evident during the ALCS against the Houston Astros, where he gave up three earned runs in just 2 1/3 innings, contributing to the pivotal Game 2 loss.

Now, he won’t face such high-pressure situations but is expected to help stabilize the bullpen and prevent overuse early in the season. Motivated to earn a roster spot, Ottavino will aim to return to his 2022 form with the Mets, when he posted a 2.06 ERA and 0.98 WHIP over 65 2/3 innings. Yankees Shut Down Contract Talks, Re-sign Former Star.