Harrison Bader, once considered a rising star and a valuable part of the New York Yankees’ outfield lineup, has been struggling at the plate recently. He faced a prolonged slump that has tested his confidence and performance. To be fair to Bader, persistent injuries have played its part in spoiling his strong run this season.
Having said that, the New York Yankees seemed to have changed their goalpost. The recent roster moves indicate that the club is trying to build long-term stability rather than focusing more on this season’s playoff push. Amid this, the club has reportedly made a shocking move that took the fans and analysts alike by surprise.
Harrison Bader was Placed On Irrevocable Waivers By the Yankees! What Does It Mean?
The New York Yankees fans woke up to a surprising rumor on Tuesday. Erik Boland of Newsday claimed that the Bombers had placed slumping center fielder Harrison Bader on irrevocable waivers. Under this type of waiver, the teams will have the right to claim Bader till Friday. If the outfielder fails to attain a buyer, he will return to the Yanks roster for the rest of the season. While manager Aaron Boone refused to confirm the rumors, the center-fielder shared his thoughts on the same. Bader claimed that he was having lunch at Comerica Park when he saw his name flash on the TV screens and was made aware of his situation. “I just don’t even watch ESPN, and all of a sudden, here we go,” Bader said.
It’s a little weird, but it’s not an uncommon practice. Often, in the case of irrevocable waivers, the franchise chooses not to inform the players until a deal is confirmed. Regardless, Harrison Bader is unfazed by the speculations and uncertainty. Shortly after hearing the news, he stepped onto the field to face the Detroit Tigers. He said that growing up in New York, he never thought of wearing a baseball uniform in the big leagues, let alone the Yankees. Hence, the outfielder is grateful for every opportunity he has received to date. Having said that, being in an unfamiliar situation is difficult. But his focus is on grabbing every opportunity provided to him. Overall, Harrison Bader is excited to see what the future holds for him.
Why Did Harrison Bader Featured Vs. Tigers Despite Being On Waivers?
A few hours after waiver news broke the internet, Yankees Harrison Bader took the center field at Comerica Park against the Detroit Tigers. Is he allowed to continue playing games while being on waivers? Yes. Under irrevocable waivers, rival teams will have 48 hours to claim the outfielder. Post that, Bader will automatically return back to the Bombers’ roster and continue till the end of the season.
Harrison Bader can play as many games as he or the team wants until the time he is officially claimed off the waivers by any rival team. Having said that, Bader is an impending free agent, and the recent move clearly indicates that the Yankees no longer see their future in the outfielder. Even if he escapes the current situation, he is unlikely to return to the Bronx in 2024.
