The New York Yankees displayed peak unseriousness when they avoided acquiring a significant piece during the trade deadline. While the fans expected the inclusion of strong outfielders, or even a third baseman for that matter, the Bombers ended up locking in a mere two bullpen pieces. That enraged the fans as their expectations were sky-high.
Anyway, Keynan Middleton and Spencer Howard were the two bullpen pieces who made their way in the Bronx mid-season. While Howard was assigned to minor league, Middleton was made a part of what seemed the best bullpen in the whole league. While many players fear performing in front of the ruthless Yankees crowd, it seems Middleton hit the right cord.
Keynan Middleton Expresses Desire To Return In Pinstripes In 2024!
Both Keynan Middleton and Spencer Howard were wrongfully scrutinized for being traded to the New York Yankees. The Bronx Bombers remained in a critical position, and thus, the fans expected the addition of a big name. However, Middleton took it as a challenge and made efforts to win the hearts of the fans. In 12 games in the Bronx, the reliever clocked a 1.88 ERA with 17 strikeouts. Just when Keynan displayed signs of life, an unfortunate shoulder inflammation surgery cut short his season. Regardless, the pitcher left a profound impact on the team as he is set to enter free agency for the fourth straight season. That being said, Middleton recently expressed his desire to return to the Bronx for 2024.
The pitcher said that he loved being a part of a wonderful group. In just a few days of his arrival, the coaches were able to figure out areas of concern and offered him solutions for the same, which filled him with immense confidence. Middleton added that he only knew Giancarlo Stanton beforehand and felt honored to be his teammate. But now that he has got to know Aaron Judge, he considers himself the captain’s biggest fan. “After being here, I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to be here. I’d love to come back here,” said Keynan. Having said that, the reliever’s retention seems highly unlikely for now. The Yankees have an overflowing bullpen, with additional arms getting equipped in the minor league system. Still, the Yanks are in a tough spot, and nothing can be ruled out at this point.
Yankees Dealing With Sea Of Arbitration Eligible Players Ahead Of Non-Tender Deadline
The non-tender deadline will be upon the New York Yankees once the off-season kicks off. The Bombers, more than any other team, would be wary of the deadline. It’s because they have a sea of arbitration-eligible players awaiting their fate. As many as 17 players will be eligible for arbitration, and the Yanks do not have room for everyone.
Having said that, a few players like Domingo German, Ryan Weber, Jimmy Cordero, and Billy McKinney are likely to get non-tendered. The players who end up without a tender contract will subsequently enter unrestricted free agency. Overall, Hal Steinbrenner’s desk is full, and he needs to make quick decisions while staying mindful of its impact at the same time.
