Brian McCann Endorses David Carpenter

With the New Year’s Day trade sending one-time top prospect, and former member of the Killer B’s, Manny Banuelos to the Atlanta Braves, the Yankees have received two intriguing bullpen pieces in David Carpenter and Chasen Shreve. 

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The acquisition of Shreve, a 24-year old lefty who dominated the minors and the majors (albeit in limited time) in 2014, gives the Yankees one more piece to add to their already impressive stockpile of left-handed arms in a bullpen that already includes new acquisitions Andrew Miller and Justin Wilson, with last year’s second round draft pick Jacob Lindgren figuring to enter the mix at some point.

The former, a 29-year old right-hander with a mid-to-high 90s fastball and a strong cutter and slider, has a history with current Yankees catcher Brian McCann. McCann was Carpenter’s catcher during 2013, his best season, when he posted a 1.78 ERA, and 10.1 K/9 in 65.2 IP, serving as one of the best set-up men in baseball.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, apparently that one season together was good enough for McCann to endorse the Yankees’ acquisition of Carpenter.

One is left to wonder if Carpenter can repeat his magical season of 2013 now that he is pitching to McCann again.