The New York Yankees have traded three minor league pitchers to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for all-star reliever Zach Britton. The trade was confirmed on Tuesday night.As part of the deal, the Yankees sent Dillon Tate, Josh Rogers, and Cody Carroll to Baltimore.
Britton, aged 30, has amassed 139 saves for the Orioles since 2013 and is considered one of the top bullpen arms available following recent trades involving Brad Hand, Kelvin Herrera, and Jeurys Familia.
Excited about joining the Yankees, Britton commented, “I’m not there yet, but once I get in the clubhouse… I know the feeling of being part of a winning team, and you can sense it in the clubhouse. Hopefully, I can seamlessly fit in and contribute effectively.”
Among other teams interested in acquiring Britton were the Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros, and Chicago Cubs. Britton faced a setback with a ruptured right Achilles during an offseason workout and made his 2018 debut on June 12.
Britton now joins David Robertson, Aroldis Chapman, and Dellin Betances in the Yankees’ bullpen, which leads the major leagues with a 2.75 ERA and 448 strikeouts. He becomes the third Yankees reliever with over 100 career saves.
Britton expressed his willingness to earn his role in the team and praised the existing players in the bullpen, stating, “I believe you need to prove yourself in a new team, especially with the talent they have. I’ll strive to integrate and earn whatever role is assigned to me.”
He added, “Having the opportunity to pursue a World Series ring, as the Yankees do, is a rare chance that shouldn’t be missed.”
