Zack Britton arrived at New York Yankees’ camp Monday and is ready to get to work in whatever role he’s given.
Zack Britton is focused on one thing and one thing only: winning.
After arriving at the New York Yankees spring training complex Monday, Britton spoke to Erik Boland of Newsday about that and the role he’ll have in the Bombers bullpen this year.
Zack Britton said there’s been no discussion about his role, nor does he care. Had chances to close with various teams but wanted to come back to the Yankees: “I felt like this was probably the team closest to winning a World Series so that was the biggest draw.”
— Erik Boland (@eboland11) February 11, 2019
The clear focus of Britton’s conversation with Boland was how he’s open to pitching anywhere manager Aaron Boone needs him to. Boone has a luxury of arms to chose from, and an elite player like Britton willing to do that shows his true character.
Even with Britton mentioning his willingness to pitch anywhere, he also noted how he was offered deals by teams where he would be closing. All of that doesn’t matter though. Britton clearly wants to win and felt his best chance to do that was in New York.
This season brings a different feel for Britton who is entering 2019 with a completely clean bill of health. He missed all of April and May of 2018 recovering from an Achilles injury during an offseason workout. While it took him time to recover, he did eventually return to form during the 2018 season.
New York traded for Britton at the deadline last year. He made a significant impact to the Bombers bullpen from the time he was traded. He posted a 2.88 ERA in 25 innings during the regular season for New York. Britton then posted a 2.25 ERA in the postseason against Boston.
Whether he pitches in the sixth, seventh, eighth, or even the ninth inning, Britton makes this Yankees bullpen so much deeper than it already is. It’s going to be fun watching the opposition this year get frustrated over the success Britton and co. have.
Pitchers and catchers officially report on Wednesday of this week.
