The Yankees came to terms yesterday with Ramiro Mendoza on a one-year, $1.4 million contract, thereby avoiding arbitration.
Mendoza, the versatile 27-year-old reliever, will start the year in the bullpen but could be used as a fifth starter if lefty Ed Yarnall falters. He was 9-9 this past season with an ERA of 4.29. He had three saves in 47 relief appearances and started six other games.
“Ramiro is a key component to our pitching staff,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said in a prepared statement. “He has a unique ability to adapt and pitch successfully in a variety of roles. His versatility is a welcome attribute to the team.”
Mendoza agreed to a contract that was the midpoint between his and the team’s salary arbitration figures. He came in at $1.7 million and the Yankees countered with $1.1 million. He is the fourth of six Yankee arbitration cases to settle before a hearing.
Only Derek Jeter, who is close to a seven-year, $119 million contract, and Mariano Rivera remain unsigned.
Although Mendoza had a spotty year, his work in the ALCS was extremely valuable to Joe Torre, and proved his mettle and worth by halting Red Sox rallies in two vital situations.