Yankees Sign Former Blue Jays Reliever to Minor League Deal

The Toronto Blue Jays designated left-hander Tim Mayza for assignment on June 29. Mayza, 32, cleared waivers and was released by the team on July 5. Despite his struggles to repeat his outstanding 2023 season, he was still given high-leverage outings throughout 2023. In his final five appearances with the Blue Jays, Mazya’s ERA rose to nearly 25 over a difficult four-inning stretch. Overall, Mayza has an 8.03 ERA over 24 2/3 innings this season. As of now.

Tim Mayza Signs Minor League Deal with Yankees

After being selected by Toronto in the 2013 MLB Draft, Mayza worked for them for 11 years. After making 352 appearances in the following eight years, he made his Major League debut in 2017 at the Rogers Centre. In addition to having more than any other pitcher on the team during that time, Mayza ranks sixth all-time in Blue Jays pitching appearances. In 2021, he made an immediate impact in Toronto’s bullpen, and in the following three seasons, he pitched 155 innings with a 2.67 ERA. With a 1.52 ERA in 69 games pitched, he had his greatest season ever the previous year.

This season, Mayza has allowed 24 runs (22 earned) on 36 hits and 12 walks in 24 2/3 innings. Out of the 121 hitters he faced, he was able to strike out 16. He is the only reliever in the league with an ERA over 8.00, with an 8.03 mark.

Following Mayza’s assignment, Blue Jays manager John Schneider stated, “It all boils down to performance.” It’s difficult for Timmy. He has been a vital member of our team and bullpen for a very long time. Even if the Blue Jays’ decision to release Mayza was unthinkable at the beginning of spring training, it’s easy to understand why.

“Even though we hate to see him go, it’s been a difficult year for him. Hopefully, a change of scenery is good for him.”

The crew of the Yankees bullpen has sustained numerous injuries. In recent weeks, Nick Burdi, Jonathan Loáisiga, and Ian Hamilton have all been added to the injured list. Mayza will probably start for New York at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. The Yankees’ left-handers have a 4.16 ERA, while their bullpen is ranked seventh (3.64).