Luis Severino Aims for Redemption Against Former Yankees

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Luis Severino, a former New York Yankees pitcher, is set to face his old team for the first time on Sunday. Severino, now with the Oakland Athletics, expressed excitement about the matchup Friday at Sutter Health Park.

“I’m pretty excited about facing the Yankees,” Severino said. “I’m trying to figure out what to throw [Aaron] Judge. I’m going to bring everything I have out there.”

Severino, who was signed by the Yankees in 2012, had a rocky career in New York, marked by injuries. He last pitched for the Yankees in 2023, where he struggled with a 6.65 ERA over 19 games. After a solid season with the Mets in 2024, Severino joined the A’s on a three-year, $67 million deal.

In spring training, the right-hander learned about the Yankees’ updated facial hair policies, saying, “I was mad. I was there, and I couldn’t do that.” He now sports the same beard he wore with the Mets.

Severino has started the season strong with a 3.62 ERA over eight games with the A’s, where he has noted improvements in his approach to pitching and maintaining his health. “After injuries derailed my Yankees career, I’ve learned how to take care of my body,” he said.

JP Sears, Severino’s teammate with the A’s, hailed him as a leader in the rotation, especially for younger, Latin players. “He’s particularly helpful,” Sears said.

Looking forward to the Sunday game, Severino seems to have no ill feelings toward the Yankees. “I love it there,” he said. “I was a Yankees fan growing up. They made me the pitcher I am.”