Yankees Option Newly Acquired Reliever To Minors

The New York Yankees were one of the busier teams during this past trade deadline, acquiring several key players to help turn things around. Unfortunately, one of their newest relievers, Jake Bird, has struggled mightily in his first few games as a Yankee. Following last night’s crushing 8-5 loss to the Texas Rangers in extra innings, New York has decided to option Bird to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Yankees Option Newly Acquired Reliever To Minors

Tough Loss After Tough Loss

Bird, who surrendered the game-winning, 3-run home run to Josh Jung in the 10th inning, has been shaky to say the least in his first few outings after departing from the Colorado Rockies. In his first appearance in pinstripes against the Miami Marlins on Friday, the 30 year-old veteran gave up 4 earned runs (including a grand slam to Kyle Stowers), getting just a single out in the process. On Saturday, he bounced back and pitched a perfect inning against Miami. The Yankees ended up losing both games regardless.

Economical Move

Now, after yet another rough outing, New York has decided to send their new trade acquisition to Triple-A. The move likely has more to do with fellow right-hander Mark Leiter Jr regaining his health rather than Bird’s disastrous start to his Yankee career. According to Greg Joyce of the New York Post, New York will likely reactivate Leiter Jr for Tuesday’s game against the Rangers.

Tough as it may be to join a new team and immediately leave for the minors, Bird will be back relatively soon, depending on injuries and/or struggling teammates. Regardless, this move is not a good look for a Yankees squad that was banking on its new bullpen additions to help them win games, not lose them.