The New York Yankees have an elite bullpen, and it has been that way in part because of Ian Hamilton.
Hamilton was a low-profile addition in the offseason, and has slowly evolved from fringe roster guy to low-leverage reliever to valuable setup man to relief star.
Yes, that has happened in a span of less than two months, but it’s clear that Hamilton has been working on improving his stuff for quite some time now.
He had become one of Aaron Boone’s most trusted relief arms.
He won’t be able to pitch for at least a couple of weeks, though.
“Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves: • Placed RHP Ian Hamilton on the 15-day injured list with a right groin strain. • Recalled LHP Nick Ramirez (#63) from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre,” the Yankees tweeted.
Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:
• Placed RHP Ian Hamilton on the 15-day injured list with a right groin strain.
• Recalled LHP Nick Ramirez (#63) from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.— New York Yankees (@Yankees) May 17, 2023
At least it’s not his arm, but groin injuries can be extremely tricky and require a full recovery before doing even basic activities.
Luis Severino spent a few weeks trying to shake off a groin strain last season before eventually making his return.
Still, the Yankees probably prefer to keep any injuries related to Hamilton away from his arm.
It will be a tough loss to a Yankees bullpen that is currently without Tommy Kahnle, Scott Effross, Lou Trivino, and Jonathan Loaisiga, among others.
Hamilton was riding his “slambio” (a combination of a slider with a changeup) to an incredible 1.23 ERA in 22 innings.
He has struck out 30 hitters and his WHIP is an excellent 1.09.
The Yankees announced Nick Martinez has been called up in Hamilton’s place.
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