James Paxton New York Yankees
(Photo by Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)

James Paxton introduced himself to New York Yankees fans on social media, showing that he understands what Bronx baseball is all about.

Aaron Case

New York Yankees newcomer James Paxton gets it.

The hard-throwing lefty starter took to Instagram on Monday to tell the world how he feels about his new employer.

“I am honored to have been chosen by the Yankees to help aid them in their quest for World Series ring #28,” Paxton wrote. He also proclaimed his eagerness to join the organization’s “history, tradition, and commitment to winning.”

The Bombers and their fans love to hear talk of championship goals. It’s been nearly a decade since the Yankees won a title, and if Paxton can deliver, he’ll be a hero.

In 2018, Paxton went 11-6 in 28 starts, posting a solid 3.76 ERA and a 1.1 WHIP. The 30-year-old also made history by throwing the MLB’s 299th no-hitter on May 8.

Big Maple has struggled to stay healthy throughout his career, and his 160.1 innings in 2018 was a career-high total. If he can stay healthy, though, Aaron Boone will have a power lefty to pair with righty flamethrower Luis Severino.

That combination is a recipe for October success.

The Yankees acquired Paxton from the Seattle Mariners for a package of minor leaguers that included top prospect Justus Sheffield. The Canada native joins a rotation that already includes Severino, Masahiro Tanaka, and CC Sabathia.

GM Brian Cashman is still scouring the market for another ace to fill the remaining slot. The Bombers can still trade for big-name prizes like Corey Kluber, and free agent Patrick Corbin is still on the table.

The Paxton trade is just the start of the Yankees loading up this offseason, and expectations are already crazy high. Big Maple knows what he’s been “chosen” to do, and it will be interesting to see if he can rise to the challenge.


Freelance editor and writer, and full-time Yankees fan. Originally from Monticello, NY, but now lives in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.