Yankees Should Move JA Happ to the Bullpen the Moment the Opportunity Arises

Are there any New York Yankees fans out there still flaunting a glimmer of hope that J.A. Happ will turn it around at some point this campaign? If so, we feel really sorry for you.

After a five-inning, two-run dub over the woeful Orioles, optimism was running high...er than it's been in recent weeks. However, that optimism was swiftly squandered seven batters into Wednesday's outing against the A's when struggling DH Khris Davis took him deep for a two-run second inning homer.

Happ ended up lasting just four-plus innings and surrendered five runs in the Bombers' 6-4 loss to Oakland, proving once again that Aaron Boone should move him to the bullpen as soon as possible.

We've dabbled with this idea prior to the trade deadline, but, as we know, Brian Cashman shocked the world and opted to stay quiet, choosing not to acquire another arm...despite his rotation's (outside of Domingo German) continued incompetence.

Unfortunately for the Yanks, their hands are tied. Luis Severino is still rehabbing, and rumors suggest he won't be inserted into the rotation full throttle upon returning to protect his frame. CC Sabathia's knee injury has removed him as a reliable option, as well. And throwing Deivi Garcia into the fire right off the bat will do nothing for the lauded prospect's confidence (and plus, he's already been moved to the bullpen at Triple-A).

There's no telling when the opportunity will arise, but the Pinstripes cannot afford to keep sending Happ out there once the postseason starts. His rotten 5.58 ERA and 1.372 WHIP in 2019 say it all. They need him on the bump as infrequently as possible once the stakes are raised.