Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports that the New York Yankees have signed Luis Avilan to a minor league deal with an invitation to Spring Training.
Avilan, 30, pitched for the Mets in 2019 and registered a 5.06 ERA, 4.96 FIP, and 1.469 WHIP with 8.4 K/9 as compared to 3.9 BB/9.
Despite that ugly stat line, the southpaw held same-handed opponents to a .369 OPS as compared to right-handers who had a 1.046 OPS against him. He actually ended up facing right-handed hitters more often than left-handed ones, though.
While he very well could be more successful if he faces fewer righties in 2020, the three-batter minimum that is going to be implemented this season could leave relievers with significant splits in a tough spot.
