Breaking News: New York Yankees Claim RHP Owen White Off Waivers, Designate Allan Winans for Assignment

The New York Yankees have made a move to bolster their pitching depth, claiming right-handed pitcher Owen White off waivers. In a corresponding move, the team has designated fellow pitcher Allan Winans for assignment. This transaction marks the latest step in the Yankees’ effort to strengthen their roster, with White now joining the team’s pitching staff as a potential project.

White, 24, was once considered a promising prospect in the Texas Rangers’ organization. He had been highly regarded for his strong stuff and potential to become a key contributor at the major league level. However, after struggling to make an impact in the big leagues, the Rangers designated White for assignment, opening the door for the Reds to acquire him in a trade. The Rangers received cash considerations in exchange for White’s services, which appeared to be a low-risk transaction at the time. However, things quickly unraveled for the young right-hander in Cincinnati.

White’s stint with the Reds was short-lived. Despite his potential, he failed to secure a regular spot on the team’s pitching staff and was designated for assignment once again by the Reds. With his future uncertain, the Yankees swooped in and claimed him off waivers, hoping to tap into the potential that once made White such a coveted prospect. This move demonstrates the Yankees’ willingness to take a flier on a player who may still have untapped potential, particularly in an organization known for its ability to develop pitchers.

In order to make room for White, the Yankees have designated Allan Winans for assignment. Winans, who had been with the team for a short period, will now await his future, as the Yankees determine whether to retain him or risk losing him through waivers. Winans made a limited impact during his time with the Yankees, and his designation is a procedural move to create roster flexibility for White.

For White, the Yankees represent a new opportunity, one that could potentially provide him with the coaching and development necessary to get back on track. The team’s coaching staff, led by pitching coach Matt Blake, has a history of helping pitchers unlock their potential, and White will likely benefit from this expertise. The Yankees have had success with reclamation projects in the past, bringing pitchers like Jameson Taillon and Nestor Cortes back to prominence, and they’ll be hoping to work the same magic with White.

The move also comes at a time when the Yankees are looking for pitching depth. The team has dealt with several injuries and performance issues within their rotation, and White could provide an additional arm to help fill out the pitching staff, particularly in the event of another injury or a need for a spot starter. His performance in the minors has been inconsistent, but with the right guidance, there’s potential for him to emerge as a viable option at the major league level.

Owen White will likely begin his Yankees career in the minors, where he will have the opportunity to refine his game and make adjustments. If he shows progress, it’s possible he could be called up to contribute at the big league level at some point during the 2025 season. The Yankees are known for their ability to develop pitching talent, and White may prove to be a valuable asset if he can regain his form and reach his full potential.

As for Winans, his future remains uncertain as he clears waivers. The Yankees’ decision to part ways with him may open up an opportunity for him elsewhere, but he will need to prove himself in order to continue his big league career.

For now, the Yankees’ focus will shift to their latest acquisition, hoping that White can find the consistency that eluded him in his previous stops and become a contributing piece for the team moving forward.