Former All-Star Closer Beginning Rehab Assignment Wednesday; Aiming for September Return

Remember this guy? The Baltimore Orioles' closer who allowed just four runs over 67 innings in 2016, while converting an eye-popping 47 saves? Well, he's on the New York Yankees now, and he's healthy.

Zack Britton is beginning a minor league rehab assignment on Wednesday with Low-A Tampa. 

Zack Britton starts his rehab with the Tampa Tarpons tonight.

Because Tampa is the lone team affiliate to have Statcast data available, we’ll be able to see where he is in terms of velocity and “stuff”

— Yankees Prospect Watch (@NYY_Prospects) August 24, 2022

Britton is nearing the end of his recovery from Tommy John reconstructive surgery and, assuming his rehab progresses as planned, should be able to return to the Yankees' bullpen in September. 

During his time with the Baltimore Orioles, from 2014-17, Britton was one of the best relievers in all of baseball, posting a phenomenal ERA of 1.61, 1.00 WHIP, 244 strikeouts in 246 innings and 135 saves. 

Photo Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Britton has been with the Yankees since the 2018 season and has been good, throwing a 2.78 ERA and 119 strikeouts over 139 innings. He's converted 19 saves. However, he has struggled with his command, averaging 4.8 walks per nine innings. 

It will be interesting to see how he performs upon his return. 

Photo Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports