Former Cincinnati Reds Pitcher Signs Minor League Deal With New York Yankees

The New York Yankees have added a familiar name to their pitching depth, signing veteran right-hander Lucas Vance to a minor league contract. The deal includes an invitation to Major League Spring Training, offering the 34-year-old an opportunity to compete for a spot on the Yankees' big league roster or provide crucial organizational depth. Vance spent the majority of his professional career with the Cincinnati Reds, where he established himself as a reliable arm, primarily out of the bullpen, before recent struggles with consistency and injuries.

Vance, known for his high-velocity fastball and sharp slider, made his Major League debut with the Reds in 2017 and was a fixture in their relief corps for five seasons. His peak came in 2019 and 2020, posting ERAs under 3.50 and serving as a key setup man in high-leverage situations. However, the past two seasons have seen his performance dip, battling through a shoulder issue in 2022 and struggling to regain his form last year. This minor league pact represents a low-risk, high-reward move for the Yankees, who are always on the lookout for experienced arms capable of contributing at the highest level, especially those with a track record of past success. For Vance, it's a chance to revitalize his career with a perennial contender and potentially chase a championship ring.