Yankees News: Bombers officially say farewell to “Red Thunder,” Tyler Wade bids adieu

nyy, yankees, clint frazier
Apr 22, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Clint Frazier (77) reacts after striking out in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Last week, the New York Yankees designated for assignment Clint Frazier, Tyler Wade, and Rougned Odor. Early this week, the Bombers executed a trade that sent Wade to the Los Angeles Angels, but Frazier and Odor passed through waivers unclaimed.

The Yankees had an opportunity to bring back Frazier and designate him for assignment in the minor-league system, but they elected to outright cut him after a disappointing 2021 season.

Frazier posted a measly .186 average, 5 homers, and 15 RBIs over 66 games this past year before missing the majority of the season due to migraines. He recorded a 29.8% strikeout rate, a massive number given his contact-centric approach.

At one point, Clint was thought to be one of the Yankees’ top prospects having been the 5th overall pick back in the 2013 June Amateur Draft. Now, he’s simply trying to find a new job on the free agency market. The Yankees simply can’t afford to continue relying on him just for him to miss time at this point, so giving the roster spot to a young prospect or a rising player is far more valuable.

In addition to Frazier, Wade also paid his farewells via social media.

New York, the last 9 years have been a dream. I can’t thank the fans enough for embracing me and making me feel apart of the city. To All my teammates I’m gonna miss ballin and competing with y’all! New York will always be apart of me! 
Wade will join the Los Angeles Angels after playing in more than 100 games this past season wearing pinstripes. He posted a .268 average with 5 RBIs and 17 stolen bases.
Wade is a speed demon on the base paths and offers solid utility in the infield and outfield, but the Yankees don’t see a purpose for him any longer. We will see how GM Brian Cashman replaces some of his key depth pieces moving forward.
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