MAJOR-UPDATE; From Starter to Reliever: Yankees Make Bold Decision on Pitcher Traded for $10 Million Star – Here’s What You Need to Know!”

The New York Yankees have made an important decision regarding one of their pitchers. While they haven’t traded the disgruntled veteran Marcus Stroman just yet, the team has shifted their focus to Clayton Beeter, a prospect they acquired in 2022.

The Yankees sent outfielder Joey Gallo and his $10 million salary to the Dodgers in exchange for Beeter, a second-round pick from Texas Tech in 2020. Beeter spent most of his first three seasons with the Yankees as a starting pitcher, but according to Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake, he is now transitioning to a full-time reliever.

Blake explained that Beeter’s fastball-slider combo is particularly effective in short relief bursts. “We decided to lean into the swing-and-miss potential of his fastball at the top of the zone and his slider at the bottom,” Blake said. The 26-year-old had a brief stint with the Yankees last season, appearing in three major-league games with a 4.91 ERA, striking out five in 3.2 innings. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury limited his time in the minors, though he did post an impressive 2.25 ERA in 10 games at Triple-A, striking out 51 batters in 36 innings.

Historically, the Yankees have found success moving starters to the bullpen, as seen with Dellin Betances, who transitioned from struggling starter to a four-time All-Star setup man, and Chad Green, who excelled in a versatile relief role.

The team hopes Beeter can follow in their footsteps, though he may need more time to develop as a reliever. Beeter is currently dealing with another shoulder injury, and Yankees manager Aaron Boone recently mentioned this issue to reporters. Given that Beeter still has two minor-league options remaining, it’s expected he will begin the 2025 season in the minors, with his status for Opening Day uncertain due to the recent shoulder concern.