2019 was a disastrous season for Dellin Betances.
The hard-throwing reliever was ready to begin his eighth year with the Yankees when he was initially sidelined in March due to discomfort in his shoulder. That injury, which turned out to be a bone spur, kept him out until September. He recovered from that only to then suffer a torn Achilles in his return to the mound.
It was awful luck for Betances, especially as he is now a free agent. According to a report from YES Network's Jack Curry, the Yankees have "engaged" in discussions with Betances, and a couple other teams may also be interested.
Betances is likely to sign 1-year deal to boost his value after a lost 2019. Yanks have engaged w/ him. Keep an eye on Tampa Bay, too. Also, FWIW, one of Beltran's friends held a congratulatory dinner after he got the Mets job. The only active player who attended was Betances.
— Jack Curry (@JackCurryYES) December 9, 2019Signing a one-year deal would make sense for Betances, depending on when he is able to come back from his Achilles injury, and it could also make sense for one of those teams. If he is able to return during the season and show some of his old stuff, then the franchise that took a gamble on him could be rewarded with a very effective reliever.
His return from injury on September 15 only lasted 8 pitches, but he struck out the two batters he was put in the game to face. It looked like he might be able to help the Yankees as they approached the playoffs, until the next injury was diagnosed.
Betances, who was born in Washington Heights and grew up in New York City, had a few impressive years for the Yankees before his recent issues with injuries. He made the All-Star team for four consecutive seasons from 2014-2017. In 2014 and 2015 he posted ERAs of 1.40 and 1.50 respectively.
The Mets would be an intriguing alternative to the Yankees. If Betances can't come to an agreement to stay in the Bronx, he could stay local and look to Queens for his next opportunity.
There's no question that Betances has talent, but there is a question of just how good he'll be when he comes back from this latest major injury.
