A New Bench Coach
The Yankees have made two under-the-radar signings this week with the arrival of new bench coach Brad Ausmus and reliever Yerry De Los Santos. Brad Ausmus, in particular, is an interesting signing as he has major-league coaching experience. He replaces former Yankee bench coach Carlos Mendoza, who now became the new manager of the Mets.
This may also be a subtle shot across the bow of Aaron Boone. A capable and respectable baseball mind is in the ranks if he should falter. Ausmus is regarded as a solid manager despite not succeeding with the Angels and Tigers this time. He was let go of both those managerial roles; however, Ausmus was picked up quickly in his free agency. This is because of his unique perspective of being a former catcher, which tends to produce great managers.
Particularly Yankee Managers such as Joe Torre and Joe Girardi. Overall, the Ausmus acquisition is a good baseball move for the Yankees and gives them a much-needed second opinion.
A New Reliever
The Yankees also acquired Yerry De Los Santos, a former Pirate, on a minor league deal with the potential to become a major league contract. This is a great move by the Yankees, as they acquire a pitcher with high upside and a controllable arm. De Los Santos struggled in Pittsburgh, bouncing back and forth between the minor and major leagues. However, he has a unique makeup, an upper 90s fastball, and a heavy sinker. This seems all too similar to another Yankee, Clay Holmes. Who was also a Pirate and a sinker ball pitcher who struggled mightily before becoming a Yankee. Holmes’s ERA was north of 5 in his time in Pittsburg, while as a Yankee, it hovers around 2.50. That is a gargantuan improvement that the Yankees hope can occur with De Los Santos.
The Yankees, such as Ian Hamilton and Wandy Peralta, have produced great bullpen arms in the past years. Right now, they will need to keep producing bullpen arms because this will help to keep the payroll low. This has been a critical strength where the Yankees can produce great relievers on the cheap instead of having to acquire marquee names via free agency. In conclusion, De Los Santos has all the qualities to become a great relief pitcher with the guidance of the Yankees pitching staff.
Main Photo Credits: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
