The Yankees bullpen might need help, but Scott Effross will have to wait to get back to the big leagues.
On Sunday, the Yankees announced they’ve reinstated Effross from the 15-day injured list but optioned him to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Effross has been working his way back from the Tommy John surgery that wiped out his 2023 season. He required back surgery that limited him to three appearances last season.
In his very first spring training game, Effross suffered a hamstring issue that delayed his start to the season. The Yankees still aren’t ready to slot him directly back into a major league role.
Instead, he’ll keep building up strength and command with Triple-A Scranton. They can stash him there are a quick option for a fresh arm or insurance for the bullpen while he builds up.
With an unorthodox sidearm delivery and ability to induce weak contact, Effross intrigued the Yankees.
In 2022, Effross posted a 2.66 ERA over 47 appearances with the Cubs before being traded to the Yankees at the deadline. He continued his strong performance with New York, recording a 2.13 ERA in 13 games and earning three saves.
Unfortunately, his momentum was halted when he underwent Tommy John surgery in October 2022.
Effross certainly isn't considered a savior, but the Yankees have been high on him. They got fans excited about him after they acquired him from the Chicago Cubs in 2022, but he's barely pitched in pinstripes.
If he continues to progress at Triple-A, it’s only a matter of time before the Yankees call him back, especially with the innings starting to pile up on a taxed bullpen.
Effross may not be back in the Bronx yet, but it gives the Yankees the pitching depth they desperately need right now. But his return is officially back on the table.
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