Roster Moves: Austin Romine Optioned Shane Greene Recalled

Mar 13, 2014; Clearwater, FL, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Shane Greene (90) pitches during the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Bright House Field. Philadelphia Phillies defeated the New York Yankees 6-2. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

The Yankees have optioned catcher Austin Romine to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and recalled pitcher Shane Greene from Double-A Trenton. Romine was called up over the weekend to take Mark Teixeira‘s spot on the roster after the first baseman was put on the 15-day disabled list. This move likely comes from the Yankees’ need for bullpen arms after Vidal Nuno‘s implosion in relief during yesterday’s loss to the Orioles. The club is already carrying two catchers on the roster in Brian McCann and Francisco Cervelli and Romine was seen as the obvious choice to go. Greene has not yet pitched in a game this year and has never played in the Major Leagues. The 25-year-old’s stay could be short but he is needed for the time being and he just missed out on a roster spot coming out of spring training.

In five minor league seasons, Greene has pitched in 105 games, starting 90 of them and compiling a 24-41 record with a 4.35 ERA. He was the winner of the Kevin Lawn award for best pitcher in the Yankees’ farm system in 2013 as he reached Double-A for the first time in his career. Manager Joe Girardi will more than likely use him in middle relief while he’s with the team if he is needed. If he pitches well, he may be able to earn a spot in the ‘pen either this season or in the future. He’s not likely to remain with the club once Teixeira returns.

Romine didn’t play much since being called up from the minors, only catching for a few innings or so. He was in the running for the backup catcher role behind Brian McCann but ultimately lost out to Cervelli. He played on the big league club for a big chunk of the 2013 season but failed to hit enough to stay with the team. He’ll likely be up if an injury at the catcher’s spot occurs or during roster expansion in September. The Yankees will be playing with one less player on their bench for now. Greene adds a much-needed extra arm to the bullpen while he’s here.