Bryan Mitchell Optioned To Trenton

Mar 2, 2014; Dunedin, FL, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Bryan Mitchell (85) throws a pitch pitch during the third inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Florida Auto Exchange Park. New York Yankees defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 8-2. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

According to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, the Yankees optioned RHP Bryan Mitchell to Double-A Trenton on Sunday afternoon. There has been no announcement yet, but, this move seems to correspond with David Robertson‘s activation before Tuesday’s game against the Red Sox. The Yankees have an off day Monday.

Robertson has been out since April 6th with a groin strain. He faced five batters in an extended spring training game on Saturday, throwing 16 pitches, 12 for strikes.

Apr 6, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Yankees relief pitcher David Robertson (30) throws a pitch in the ninth inning during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. The New York Yankees won 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

His return can’t come soon enough for a Yankees’ bullpen that imploded Friday. With Robertson returning to his closing role, Shawn Kelley will go back to the eighth inning after filling in nicely as the closer. This will deepen the ‘pen significantly, with guys like Dellin Betances, and Matt Thornton handling the middle innings if necessary.

Mitchell pitched well for the big league club. He went 1-0 in three innings for the Bombers. He allowed three hits and struck out five, while not allowing a walk. The Yankees had to be impressed with the 23-year-old. He will likely slide back into Trenton’s rotation, where he struggled early on this year. Sending him to Double-A will allow Mitchell to keep improving and try to earn another promotion down the road.