Michael Tonkin In a notable shakeup within their bullpen, the New York Yankees have made a strategic move by designating pitcher Michael Tonkin for assignment and promoting Phil Bickford from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. This decision reflects the team’s ongoing adjustments as they strive to optimize their roster for the remainder of the season.
Michael Tonkin, who had been with the Yankees since being claimed off waivers from the New York Mets on April 26, has seen a mix of success and struggle during his time with the team. Over 39 appearances this season, Tonkin has recorded a 3-2 record with a 3.38 ERA. His performance, however, has shown significant fluctuation. Initially, Tonkin was impressive, boasting a 1.84 ERA in his first 22 outings with New York. Unfortunately, his effectiveness declined in the latter part of the season, with a less favorable 5.74 ERA in his last 17 appearances.
The Yankees now face a seven-day window to either trade, release, or send Tonkin outright to the minor leagues. This period will be crucial for the team as they consider their options for the pitcher who has been somewhat inconsistent in recent times.
Tonkin’s recent performance was marked by a couple of challenging games. In Saturday’s 9-2 defeat against the Colorado Rockies, Tonkin gave up a two-run home run to Jake Cave. Additionally, he struggled in a critical moment during Tuesday’s game against the Cleveland Guardians, allowing three runs in a six-run 12th inning. These performances may have influenced the decision to designate him for assignment.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed the difficulty of the decision, acknowledging Tonkin’s contributions and character. “Tough one today,” Boone remarked. “Tonk’s been great. He pitched well for us. He’s been a great teammate. So difficult decision there.”
This marks the fourth instance this season in which Tonkin has been designated for assignment. Earlier in the year, he faced similar challenges when the Mets cut him twice within an 18-day span, followed by a brief stint with the Minnesota Twins. The Twins acquired him for cash, but his stay was short-lived, as he was soon reclaimed by the Mets. The Mets had originally signed Tonkin to a one-year deal in the offseason, hoping to build on his previous season’s performance with the Atlanta Braves, where he had a 7-3 record and a 4.28 ERA in 45 appearances.
Tonkin’s career trajectory has been quite varied. At 34 years old, the 6-foot-7 right-hander has navigated through multiple teams and leagues. After spending parts of five seasons with the Twins, Tonkin played in Japan, Mexico, and the independent Atlantic League, in addition to various Triple-A teams between 2018 and 2023. This diverse experience underscores the challenges and adaptability required in his career.
In response to Tonkin’s departure, the Yankees have turned to Phil Bickford, who has been recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Bickford, a former first-round pick, previously pitched for the Yankees in June but had a tough stint, allowing eight runs over five appearances. Despite this, Bickford has shown promise in the minors, holding a 3-4 record with a 3.00 ERA over 34 appearances with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Bickford’s career has included time with several teams, including the Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Mets, compiling an 11-8 record with a 4.70 ERA across 184 career appearances. His experience and potential could provide a boost to the Yankees’ bullpen as they continue to refine their roster.
This latest roster move reflects the Yankees’ ongoing efforts to optimize their pitching staff and address any weaknesses as the season progresses.
