The New York Yankees have demoted right-handed pitcher Jake Bird to their Triple-A affiliate following continued difficulties in the bullpen. Bird, acquired from the Colorado Rockies just before the trade deadline last Thursday, was optioned Tuesday as the team prepares to activate reliever Mark Leiter Jr. from the injured list. This move reflects ongoing attempts to stabilize the Yankees’ bullpen during a critical stretch of the season.
Pitching Performance Behind the Decision
Bird’s brief tenure with the Yankees has been marked by trouble on the mound, as he allowed seven runs over two innings across three appearances. Notably, he gave up a grand slam in Friday’s loss to the Miami Marlins and a walk-off three-run homer during Monday’s defeat to the Texas Rangers. Before joining New York, Bird posted a 4.73 ERA with 62 strikeouts in 53 ⅓ innings for Colorado but had already shown signs of struggle, conceding 19 runs in his last 9 ⅔ innings with the Rockies.
Demotion Reflects Performance, Not Contract Concerns
The Yankees clarified that Bird’s option to Triple-A is purely performance-related, with no impact on his service time or free agency status. Since the season is nearing its end, his demotion will not delay his eligibility for free agency. Bird’s long-term value to the Yankees stems from being under team control through 2028, making him a potentially valuable asset beyond this season. The team emphasized that this move is designed to give Bird a chance to regain form.
“you’re not pitching well and we need to get you right”
—Yankees management
Recent Bullpen Changes and Team Context
The Yankees revamped their bullpen at the trade deadline, adding Bird alongside David Bednar and Camilo Doval. Despite occasional setbacks, Bednar and Doval have shown signs of recovery, each delivering efficient 1-2-3 innings during Monday’s game. Meanwhile, Mark Leiter Jr., the team’s key bullpen acquisition from last year’s trade deadline, is expected to return soon after missing nearly two months with a left knee fracture. Leiter’s 2025 season has included a 4.46 ERA, but with strong strikeout and walk numbers, though defensive lapses have sometimes affected his results.
Implications for Yankees’ Playoff Aspirations
Monday marked the fourth consecutive loss for the Yankees, who currently hold a 60-53 record and occupy the second wild card position in a tightly contested playoff race. Their postseason margin has shrunk to just 1 ½ games, increasing pressure on the bullpen to deliver reliable performances. The decision to demote Bird reflects the team’s urgency to address pitching challenges as they seek to maintain or improve their postseason standing.