Tyler Matzek, a fan favorite of the Atlanta Braves, has signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees, as reported by Chris Cotillo.
The 34-year-old veteran overcame the yips, missing years in the MLB before returning in 2020 and becoming a star for Atlanta during the World Series triumph.
In 69 outings in 2021, Matzek had a 2.57 ERA and 11.0 K/9 before going crazy in the postseason. He had a 1.48 ERA in 24.1 playoff innings for the Braves and provided one of the most memorable moments in franchise history in Game 6 of the NLCS.
Matzek appeared to have left everything on the field in 2022, as he sustained many injuries. It started with shoulder soreness and culminated with Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for the full 2023 season.
Matzek attempted to return with the Braves in 2024, but he struggled, giving up 11 runs in 11 appearances before being sidelined with left elbow discomfort. His fastball was many ticks slower, and he was eventually dealt to the Giants.
Tyler Matzek and former Braves pitcher Max Fried should both have success.
