The New York Yankees have reached an agreement with right-handed pitcher Lou Trivino, according to a report by Andy Martino of SNY. The specifics of the deal, which is contingent on a physical examination, have not yet been disclosed to the public. Greg Joyce of The New York Post previously noted Trivino’s presence at the team’s Spring Training facilities.
Lou Trivino returns to Yankees after Tommy John surgery
Trivino, 32, joined the Yankees during the 2022 trade deadline as part of the same transaction that brought Frankie Montas to the Bronx. His performance in pinstripes was impressive, boasting a 1.66 earned run average across 25 appearances following the trade. While his 10.8% walk rate during that period was slightly elevated, his 23.7% strikeout rate showcased his effectiveness, complemented by a robust 51.7% ground ball rate.
Despite Trivino’s promising start, his 2023 season was marred by injury. A diagnosis of an elbow sprain during Spring Training sidelined him for the entirety of the year, ultimately leading to Tommy John surgery in May.
With the option to retain Trivino for the 2024 season through arbitration, MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz estimated a $4.1MM salary, considering his absence in 2023. However, the Yankees opted to non-tender him, allowing him to explore free agency.
Trivino’s return to the Yankees suggests a potential renegotiation of terms, possibly at a reduced cost. Whether he secured a guaranteed spot on the roster or settled for a minor league contract remains undisclosed. The team’s ability to shift injured players to the 60-day injured list, including Scott Effross and Jasson Domínguez, provides flexibility in roster management.
Given the typical 14-month recovery timeline for Tommy John surgery, Trivino may not rejoin the team until midseason. Nonetheless, his return offers promising reinforcement to the bullpen. Known for their preference for ground ball pitchers, the Yankees see Trivino as a valuable asset, considering his career statistics. In 285 appearances, he holds a 3.86 ERA, a 24.5% strikeout rate, a 10.6% walk rate, and a 47.4% ground ball rate.
In essence, Trivino’s agreement with the Yankees signals both a renewed opportunity for the pitcher to showcase his talents and the team’s strategic reinforcement of its bullpen depth, positioning them for a competitive season ahead.
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