The New York Yankees have released injury-plagued outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury prior to the 40-man roster deadline.
The New York Yankees have finally parted ways with veteran outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury. Having dealt with numerous injuries, including an oblique strain, hip ailment, torn labrum, and plantar fasciitis, Ellsbury didn’t play a game for the Bombers the entire 2018 and 2019 seasons.
He’s a one-time All-Star, having appeared in the Midsummer Classic as a member of the Boston Red Sox in 2011. Ellsbury is a two-time World Series champion, winning it in 2007 and 2013 with Boston. Additionally, he’s a one-time Gold Glove Award winner and a one-time Silver Slugger Award winner, winning both in 2011.
Ellsbury originally signed a seven-year deal worth $153 million with New York in December of 2013. He was active for the Yanks from 2014-17. His most productive year was the inaugural campaign in 2014 when he hit 16 home runs and 70 RBI. Ellsbury additionally achieved a slash line of .271/.328/.419 through 149 games.
Thus, his last appearance for the Yankees was in the 2017 American League Championship Series against the Houston Astros. Through two games in that postseason series, Ellsbury was 0-for-1 at the plate with a strikeout.
In addition to the move, the Yankees have also designated first baseman Greg Bird for assignment. He played in just 10 games this past season, as he also dealt with plantar fasciitis.
In those appearances, he totaled just one home run, one RBI and a slash line of .171/.293/.257. He started in all 10 games and spent each one at the first base position.
Through 186 games across four seasons with the Yankees (2015, 2017-19), Bird hit 32 home runs with 98 RBIs and a slash line of .211/.301/.424.