Lucas Luetge was cut by surprise by Brian Cashman as he posted a sub-3 ERA with the New York Yankees in 31 appearances over two seasons. The Braves hope to have this type of player.
When the Yankees announced the signings of Aaron Judge and Tommy Kahnle, they had to make room on the roster. Luetge was unfortunately the victim of a lack of space, although many around baseball were surprised by New York’s choice given the consistency of southpaws on the bump.
“Yeah, when I saw the name come up on the phone I was a bit shocked,” Luetge said, according to The Athletic. “I knew there was nothing good to come out of that phone call. It’s part of baseball. »
New Braves reliever Lucas Luetge can play a big role in the Atlanta bullpen.
The timing of Luetge’s release – just before Christmas – didn’t help either. But baseball doesn’t wait for Santa Claus.
“We were in the group message congratulating Judge, calling him captain,” Luetge said, “and then it must have been an hour or two later, (Cashman) called me. He smiled and said, “So I had a good Christmas vacation explaining my situation to all my family.” »
If Luetge accepted the Yankees’ decision, he can still prove them wrong. Now with the Atlanta Braves, Luetge will be used in high leverage situations, especially against left-handed hitters.
The Braves bullpen lost Kenley Jansen in free agency, but they still have players like Raisel Iglesias, Kirby Yates, Collin McHugh, AJ Minter, Joe Jimenez and many more.
Manager Brian Snitker was particularly impressed with Luetge’s ability to throw multiple innings, and his stats in an otherwise powerful division – the AL East. To have an ERA under 3 against the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays and others is quite an achievement.
A potential Yankees mistake could be a win for Atlanta down the line.
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