When the Yankees signed Freddy Garcia last offseason, they got more than they bargained for. Garcia was acquired with the intention of adding depth to New York’s starting rotation, and he ended up posting a 12-8 record to go along with an impressive 3.62 ERA. If not for his performance, it is unlikely the Yankees would have reached the postseason. Now that Andy Pettitte is attempting to make a comeback, however, Garcia could be the odd man out.
Pettitte signed a minor league deal with the Yankees last week, but he would not have returned to baseball after a year off with the intention of pitching in the minors. If and when he makes the Yankees roster, someone will have to go. That is probably the reason Garcia is not excited about the lefty’s return.
“I don’t really care,” Garcia said according to the Star Ledger. “That’s their decision. I’m here to pitch and that’s what I want to do.”
Freddy was then asked if Pettitte’s addition was good for the team, and he reportedly threw up his hands and replied, “I don’t know man. Ask the people. I don’t know. I guess.”
Since New York announced the Pettitte signing, reactions have been mixed. The veteran position players and relievers on the team are understandably thrilled to have one of the best lefties in Yankees history back, while guys like Garcia and Phil Hughes — who said “it is what it is” when asked about the situation — seem a bit more concerned that it could cost them their rotation spot. Such is life in professional sports.
H/T Hardball Talk
