Dodgers News: Victor Gonzalez Released by Yankees, Now a Free Agent Seeking New Opportunity

Victor Gonzalez, formerly of the Los Angeles Dodgers , has officially become a free agent after being released by the New York Yankees.

The Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders confirmed the release, marking a significant moment in Gonzalez's career.

Traded to the Yankees in December 2023, Gonzalez was part of a deal that sent away promising infielder Trey Sweeney.

His journey over the past year has been tumultuous, reflecting both potential and struggles.

During his time with the Yankees, Gonzalez posted a 3.86 earned run average (ERA) through 27 appearances. He showed flashes of his potential, particularly holding left-handed batters to a mere .143 average.

However, his performance began to wane as his walk rate surged to an alarming 13.4%, which exceeded his strikeout rate of 11.3%.

Following these struggles, Gonzalez was designated for assignment, and he subsequently was reassigned to Triple-A, where he managed a 4.50 ERA over 22 innings.

Gonzalez's earlier years with the Dodgers were marked by impressive achievements. He debuted in 2020 with a striking 1.33 ERA across 20.1 innings.

Particularly noteworthy was his contribution during the Dodgers' World Series push, where he maintained a commendable 2.70 ERA.

However, an elbow debridement surgery in 2022 sidelined him for an entire season, leading to a mixed performance upon his return in 2023.

As a free agent, Gonzalez will seek to rejuvenate his career and find a new opportunity to showcase his abilities. His 4.00+ ERA records in 2024 contrast his past potential, highlighting the variability of a player’s journey in the MLB.

Going Deeper

Reference Links:

1. Ex-Dodger Victor Gonzalez Cut By Yankees, Hits Free Agency
2. Yankees Sign Ex-Dodgers Reliever, Surprisingly Cut Another
3. Yankees Dump Reliever They Traded Top Prospect For Last Offseason
4. Yankees Release Victor Gonzalez