Breaking News: Yankees Sign Andrew Miller To 4 Year Deal
By Scott Alfano
It has been a busy day for the Yankees. On the heels of trading for a new shortstop, the Bronx Bombers have just signed relief pitcher Andrew Miller for a 4 year, $36 million dollar deal. Jack Curry of the YES Network reported the story first.
Miller has been the big relief grab in free agency this season after posting his second consecutive sub 3.00 ERA season. Miller had a 2.02 ERA this season – 2.34 with the Red Sox in 50 games and 1.35 in 23 games with the Baltimore Orioles.
Miller was not always a star pitcher, owning a 5.79 ERA from 2006 to 2011. However, he has figured himself out and is now one of the best relievers in baseball. Miller is a massive 6’7 lefty signed in the first round of the 2006 draft, 6th overall.
The Yankees still have not decided whether to bring David Robertson back for 2015. He is expected to receive a three or four year deal with a little bit of a higher AAV than Miller. If Robertson does not return to the Bronx, Miller could set up Dellin Betances as an 8th and 9th inning combo. Miller has never closed before, but there is sure to be some discussion about whether he or Betances would get closing duties in a bullpen without Robertson.
The Yankees suddenly have one of the best bullpens in baseball, and have multiple lefties. Jacob Lindgren is expected to be ready for the Majors at some point in 2015, if not from day one. The Yankees also traded for Justin Wilson just a few weeks ago when they sent Francisco Cervello to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Yankees have been quiet for the most part prior today. The additions of Didi Gregorius and Miller in just a few hours have already made the team much better. The Winter Meetings are sure to bring even more pieces to the team.