Yankees Designate Adam Ottavino for Assignment Ahead of Pirates Series

PITTSBURGH — The New York Yankees have designated veteran reliever Adam Ottavino for assignment ahead of their series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. This marks a quick end to Ottavino’s second stint with the Yankees, during which he made two scoreless appearances, totaling 1 ⅓ innings, but struggled with two walks and two strikeouts.

The 39-year-old reliever returned to the Yankees after spending spring training on a minor league deal with the Boston Red Sox, where he did not make the team. Before his brief tenure with the Yankees, Ottavino had been part of the New York Mets‘ bullpen for the past three seasons, posting a 3.14 ERA during that time.

According to sources, Ottavino’s departure is prompted by the expected return of closer Devin Williams from the paternity list on Friday. Williams previously retired two of the three batters he faced upon returning to the mound. The Yankees are looking to fill a roster spot for Williams, leaving Ottavino’s status uncertain.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are also anticipating that right-hander Ian Hamilton will rejoin the team after recovering from a viral illness. Hamilton could return in time for the game against the Detroit Tigers on Monday.

The Yankees head into their matchup against the Pirates looking to strengthen their bullpen as they navigate through the early season challenges, particularly after a rocky start for some of their pitchers.