Betances Thrilled With Roster Spot

Mar 5, 2014; Port Charlotte, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Dellin Betances (68) throws a pitch during the fourth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Charlotte Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

With the news that he made the New York Yankees 25-man roster, Dellin Betances couldn’t be happier. Joe Girardi announced Friday that Betances and Vidal Nuno will get the last two spots in the Yankees bullpen. Betances informed his fiance along with his parents and siblings and said “everyone’s excited”.

And rightfully so. Its’ been a long time coming for a guy that a year ago was classified as a bust. It was not long ago that Betances was drafted out of New York City and regarded as part of the future of the Yankees’ rotation. To say it didn’t work out would be an understatement. The 6-8 righty was flat-out lousy as a starter. His resurrection last year came after he was converted to a reliever. It was a role he not only embraced, but one he excelled at. Said one scout, “he earned it”, and added “he’s focused, he’s not scared anymore”.

The humility of the Yankee reliever was on display following the announcement. “I grew up in this organization, I grew up watching them, and I got drafted by them,” said Betances. The 26-year-old added “I’ve had a lot of ups and downs, but this is definitely the most memorable moment for me. Making the team out of camp is a big deal for anybody. I’m still in shock.” Being in shock is understandable for a guy that fought through adversity and became a player that will contribute to the team he loved as a youngster. But the awe must be short-lived if he is going to thrive on the biggest stage. The mental toughness he showed in getting to the Major Leagues is what he will need to succeed there.

How  Dellin Betances’ career plays out is anyone’s guess. But it’s Betances himself, who will decide how good he can be. Making the Yankees is the first step. Now it’s time to use that same mental toughness to climb the ranks of the bullpen and become a weapon for a New York Yankees team with very high expectations. Perhaps the guy we all looked at to start games for the Yankees for a long time can one day be the guy we look to end them.