“Yankees Shake Up Pitching Staff: Former $10 Million Star Trade Piece Moves to Bullpen – What’s Next for Clayton Beeter?”

The New York Yankees have made a significant decision regarding one of their pitchers, but it’s not about trading Marcus Stroman—

at least not yet. Instead, the focus is on Clayton Beeter, a pitching prospect acquired from the Dodgers in 2022 in exchange for struggling outfielder Joey Gallo. Beeter, a 2020 second-round pick from Texas Tech, spent his first three seasons with the Yankees primarily as a starter. However, Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake revealed to the *New York Post* that Beeter will now transition to a full-time reliever role.

Blake explained that Beeter’s fastball-slider combination, which generates significant swing-and-miss potential, is better suited for relief work. “We decided to lean into the swing-and-miss of the fastball at the top of the zone and the slider at the bottom,” Blake said. “We thought it might even play up in short bursts.” The 26-year-old Beeter made his MLB debut last season, posting a 4.91 ERA in three games with five strikeouts in 3.2 innings. However, a shoulder injury limited his time in the minors, where he went 3-1 with a 2.25 ERA in 10 games (seven starts) at Triple-A, striking out 51 batters in 36 innings but also issuing 21 walks.

The Yankees have a history of successfully converting starting pitching prospects into effective relievers. Dellin Betances, for example, struggled as a starter but became a four-time All-Star in the bullpen, while Chad Green thrived as a versatile reliever. Beeter could follow a similar path, though his progress may be delayed due to another shoulder issue. Yankees manager Aaron Boone recently noted that Beeter is dealing with a shoulder ailment, and with two minor-league options remaining, he is likely to start the 2025 season in the minors. It remains unclear whether he’ll begin the year on the injured list.

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