Yankees scout former All-Star pitcher Henderson Alvarez
The adage that a team can never have too much pitching often rings true. And so, the Yankees recently scouted free-agent right-hander Henderson Alvarez, who once threw a no-hitter in 2013.
Just 16 days until pitchers and catchers report to Tampa, FLA — the New York Yankees starting staff appears to be set. Following general manager Brian Cashman’s proclamation that J.A. Happ is a leader for the Yankees fifth spot in the rotation, potentially relegating Jordan Montgomery to the bullpen as a long reliever, New York looks set to begin the new season.
However, as we saw with 30 players sent to the injured list in 2019, having a bountiful minor league system, especially with experienced players waiting in the Triple-A wings, is wise.
Therefore, according to Jon Morosi of MLB.com, it makes sense that the Yanks were one of three teams that recently scouted former 2014 NL All-Star Henderson Alvarez.
In an effort to make the Venezuelan National team that will be competing for a spot in the upcoming Olympics, the 29-year-old Alvarez flashed a 95 mph fastball during a bullpen session.
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Following multiple shoulder surgeries, Henderson hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2017 for the Phillies.
Since then, he has tried to reproduce his upper-90s fastball, mid-90s sinker, and career 54.8 groundball rate across the Independent, Mexican and minor leagues.
Aiming for an invite to Spring Training, Alvarez appeared in 24 games for the Washington Nationals Triple-A Fresno affiliate last season, struggling to a 1-4 record, 5.94 ERA, 1.623 WHIP, 11.5 H/9, 2.5 HR/9, and 37:18 K:BB ratio in 53 innings.
However, after his time with Fresno came to an end, Alvarez improved, albeit against lesser competition in the Mexican League. Pitching for Los Tigres de Quintana Roo, Alvarez went 4-2 with a 3.12 ERA, 1.413 WHIP, and 23:5 K:BB ratio across 34.2 innings (six starts).
While it’s virtually impossible to predict if Alvarez will ever make his way back to the level of production he flashed with the Marlins from 2013-15 when he compiled a 17-17 record while posting a 3.12 ERA and 1.228 WHIP in 323 frames, he’s a buy-low candidate worth a non-commital flyer.
Allowing Alvarez the opportunity to rediscover his potential that included a no-hitter versus the Tigers in 2013 and an All-Star Game appearance the following season is undoubtedly worth a minor league contract with an invite to camp. Heck, the Yankees can even throw in an opt-out should he not make the 26-man roster.