Yankees designate Ronald Torreyes for assignment, claim Parker Bridwell
Today the Yankees claimed RHP Parker Bridwell off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. To make room on the 40-man roster the team made the surprising move to DFA utility man Ronald Torreyes.
The “Toenight Show” in the Bronx ended it’s three year run today and I have to say I’m somewhat shocked. It’s not that I fully expected to see Torreyes back with the Yankees in 2019 but I certainly didn’t think he would be DFA’d in November to make room for Parker Bridwell.
During his time in New York, Torreyes was a fan favorite and one of the most beloved teammates inside the Yankees clubhouse. Despite his lack of size, standing at 5’8, 151 lbs, he overcame the odds to become one of the better utility players in baseball over the past couple of seasons. Especially in 2016 and 2017 when he showed his versatility by filling in adequately for injured teammates Didi Gregorius and Starlin Castro for extended periods of time.
In 2018 Torreyes didn’t spend nearly as much time with the big league club because there simply wasn’t enough room for him on the Yankees overcrowded 25-man roster. He only played 41 games a season ago, but despite the decrease in playing time he still made the most of his opportunities. He hit .280 in 100 at-bats, .344 with RISP and played solid defense wherever he was placed in the infield.
Torreyes never had a high OBP or hit for much power during his time with the Yanks (.685 career OPS) and that probably made him expendable. As consistent as he was with his glove and with runners on base with the bat he’s not a player with much upside unlike Bridwell the player he was cut to make room for.
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The 27-year-old Bridwell is coming off an injury-plagued 2018 campaign in which he only appeared in five games (one start) due to an elbow injury. However, in 2017 he was a surprise contributor to the Angels starting rotation going 10-3 with a 3.64 ERA in 20 starts.
For the Yankees to DFA a player a popular as Torreyes, it must mean that they’re high on Bridwell and believe that he can be a contributor to next year’s club if healthy. He’ll provide some organizational depth as a possible spot starter or as a potential bullpen piece in 2019.
As for Torreyes, he should have no issues finding a team to play for next season because of the versatility he brings and the knack he has for getting clutch hits. He would fit nicely on a lot of National League clubs coming off the bench.
It’s sad to see him go but he’ll always hold a special place in the hearts of Yankee fans and his teammates. All the best to Toe.