The New York Yankees have acquired Jake Cousins, the cousin of NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins, in a trade with the Chicago White Sox. Cousins, a right-handed reliever, had previously spent spring training with the White Sox before being assigned to Triple-A at the start of the season. He was briefly assigned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre after being acquired by the Yankees but was called up to the major league team ahead of their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. To make room for him on the roster, the Yankees optioned left-hander Tanner Tully. Cousins was originally drafted by the Washington Nationals in 2017 and has spent the last three seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Cousins’ time with the Brewers saw him make a total of 51 appearances, with nine appearances and a 4.82 ERA in the last season. He was placed on waivers in July and claimed by the Houston Astros before being designated for assignment and sent outright to Triple-A Sugar Land. Cousins opted for free agency in December and was acquired by the White Sox before being traded to the Yankees. Known for his heavy slider-sinker pitch, Cousins has a career ERA of 3.08 and has struck out 72 batters in 52 2/3 innings at the major league level. His pitching style aligns well with the Yankees’ preference for that type of pitcher in their bullpen.
The acquisition of Cousins by the Yankees led to the optioning of Tanner Tully, who had been called up the previous day to provide length in the bullpen for the final two games against the Astros. Tully’s week included traveling from Mexico City to Houston with the team, then flying back to Tampa, driving to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, bussing to Buffalo to begin the Triple-A season, and finally flying back to Houston to rejoin the Yankees. The unexpected trade added another twist to Tully’s eventful week. The Yankees hope that Cousins will bring depth and strength to their bullpen as they compete in the highly competitive American League.
Jake Cousins’ background as a pitcher with experience at the major league level, along with his family connection to NFL player Kirk Cousins, has generated interest and intrigue among fans and commentators alike. The Yankees’ decision to acquire Cousins shows their commitment to strengthening their bullpen and adding depth to their pitching staff. Cousins’ pitching style and track record indicate that he has the potential to make a significant impact with the team, especially as they navigate a demanding season and compete against tough rivals in the league. The trade marks a new chapter in Cousins’ career, providing him with the opportunity to contribute to a storied franchise like the New York Yankees.
Overall, the trade involving Jake Cousins and the Yankees highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the connections that exist between different players and teams. Cousins’ journey from being drafted by the Nationals to playing for the Brewers and Astros before landing with the Yankees showcases the resilience and adaptability required in the competitive world of baseball. As Cousins joins the Yankees and prepares to showcase his skills on the mound, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he performs and how he contributes to the team’s success. With the support of his new teammates and the backing of a passionate fan base, Cousins has the opportunity to make a name for himself in the high-pressure environment of New York baseball.
