“The Yankees selected LHP Tim Mayza (#58) to the active roster and signed him to a Major League contract before tonight’s game,” the team said.
Max Goodman of NJ Advance Media reports that New York’s decision is unexpected.
Goodman conceded, “I thought Scott Effross may have been the fresh arm for the bullpen.” The Yankees chose to activate lefty Tim Mayza, whom they acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays early in the season. After joining the Yankees, Mayza had nine appearances with AAA SWB and had a 2.16 ERA.
The Yankee bullpen now has just two southpaws, Mayza and Tim Hill. Before being designated for assignment, Mayza, 32, had an 8.03 ERA in 35 appearances with the Blue Jays this season. Nevertheless, after being selected by the Yankees, he recovered in triple-A.
Mayza had a 1.52 ERA in 69 outings the previous season; New York will be hoping he can duplicate that performance.
The Yankees should give Tim Mayza a short leash
Tim Mayza should be given a short leash by the Yankees.
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Before the playoffs, New York has a month and a half to sort out its bullpen. Mayza might be improving, but if he stumbles, there’s no need to keep giving him opportunities. In triple-A, the team has Effross, Nick Burdi, and Ron Marinaccio, all of whom have extensive big-league experience.
In the past, the Yankees themselves have witnessed firsthand Mayza’s troubles. In his most recent big-league outing, which took place on June 28 against New York, the veteran gave up five runs without recording an out. That was the encounter that put an end to his time in Toronto. Mayza also allowed Aaron Judge to hit his 61st home run in 2022.
Mayza, though, might become a very important player if he picks up steam. In high-leverage postseason circumstances, Yankee manager Aaron Boone may utilise a shutdown lefty reliever against lefty hitters.