With Masahiro Tanaka Back in Rotation, Yankees Send Chris Capuano to Bullpen

SI

Chris Capuano’s time in the Yankees rotation has come to an end, at least for now, as the veteran lefty was demoted to the bullpen, opening a spot for Masahiro Tanaka to return from the disabled list on Wednesday.

Adam Warren had been the odds-on favorite to return to the bullpen as recently as two weeks ago thanks to his success in a setup role last season. But Warren has been the Yankees’ most consistent starter the past four times through the rotation, with an earned run average of 2.70 over 26.2 innings.

With Warren throwing the ball so well, he has been a pleasant surprise to the Yankees as of late, and his numbers definitely factored into the decision made by Joe Girardi and his staff. Warren’s performance was a bigger factor in the decision than Capuano’s, though the veteran’s 0-3 record and 6.39 ERA surely didn’t help his cause. The Yankees now have bolstered both their starting rotation, and their bullpen as Capuano’s experience will be important.

The Yankees are also looking forward to getting another young fire arm back in Ivan Nova. Nova, who had Tommy John surgery, is due back at some point in June and could really bolster the Yankees rotation. If Nova can be effective, and Warren stays consistent the question will then become, who will Nova replace? No matter who it is, the Yankees rotation will only get stronger in the weeks to come.