To say that Andrew Heaney‘s tenure with the New York Yankees was a disaster would be an understatement. He was acquired at the trade deadline to solidify the back of their rotation, only to end up being designated for assignment prior to the Wild Card Game. His time in free agency seemed destined to be even more disappointing with every pitch he threw.
But that may not be the case. According to Joel Sherman, Heaney is generating plenty of interest, with at least four teams specifically tied to the lefty.
The quiet period ends at 5pm today and if you are looking for a quick sign in this market keep an eye on Andrew Heaney. Lots of teams looking for the next Robbie Ray and Heaney struck out 27 pct of batters. Hear #Dodgers #Bluejays #Nationals #StLCards among the interested
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) November 7, 2021
Disastrous New York Yankees stint may not matter with Andrew Heaney
Heaney had been a solid back of the rotation arm for the Angels prior to the 2021 season. However, he, much like the majority of the Angels’ pitching staff, struggled last season. The Yankees were hoping that a change in scenery would allow him to become the pitcher he had been, only to watch as he was somehow even worse.
The end result was not pretty. Heaney posted a combined 5.83 ERA and a 1.319 WHiP over his 129.2 innings as opponents hit him for a .256/.317/.487 batting line. However, there were some positives, as he struck out 150 batters with just 41 walks.
That strikeout rate, coupled with a solid walk rate, make Heaney intriguing. Likewise, it is fair to wonder if he was relatively unlikely throughout the season, as he posted a 4.85 FIP. While that would not make him much more than a back of the rotation arm, it is certainly more palatable than his actual performance.
Teams are always going to look for the next potential bargain when it comes to free agency. Heaney could be that, especially given his strikeout to walk rates. The hope is that, by getting him to a different environment, he will be able to fulfill his potential. But that was the same hope that the Yankees had last year.
Andrew Heaney was a disaster during his time with the New York Yankees. That may not impact his free agency, as he has plenty of suitors already.