The Yankees have cut Adam Ottavino as another bullpen arm is ready to return from injury.
The team announced Tuesday morning that Ian Hamilton has completed his rehab assignment and has been reinstated from the IL, while Ottavino was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.
Ottavino, who pitched two seasons in pinstripes in 2019 and 2020, was DFA’d for the second time in a week after being brought on for depth purposes as the Yanks juggled injuries to their relievers, and while Devin Williams was on the paternity list. The first time Ottavino was designated for assignment, he cleared waivers and returned to New York, making another relief appearance in Tuesday’s loss to the Tigers.
The 39-year-old appeared in three games with the Yanks this year, tossing 1.2 hitless innings, though he surrendered four walks in the process.
Hamilton returns for his third season with the Yankees, as he pitched to a 3.82 ERA last season in 35 appearances. He was stellar out of the bullpen in 2023, posting a 2.64 ERA in 39 relief appearances.
As for Ottavino, his latest DFA doesn’t necessarily mean the end of his latest Yankee tenure, as he could potentially return if he clears waivers again.