Jon Paul Morosi is reporting that the Yankees have signed pitching coach Larry Rothschild away from the Cubs, despite exercising his contract only a month ago. Rothschild, who has weathered the storm in Chicago through several different managers for eight seasons, will certainly be missed despite his suspect relationship with the fans.
The only possibility I can see as to why the Yankees could have signed Rothschild from the Cubs is that once Mike Quade was named official manager, he may have been given the option to pursue other opportunities.
Here is actually what he said for his decision:
"My reasons for pursuing and accepting this opportunity are personal and family-based, as the Yankees hold spring training in, and travel several times a year to, my hometown of Tampa. The chance to spend increased time with my family was something I wanted to explore and I am grateful for the opportunity to have done so."
This acquisition was certainly kept under the radar until now, but it should help the Yankees as they look to rebuild A.J. Burnett and Joba Chamberlain, as well as build on a solid season for Phil Hughes.
It will be interesting to see who the Cubs bring in to replace Rothschild. Quade seems to favor in-house candidates, but there are several quality pitching coaches available. Formers Brewers coach Rick Peterson was just released and he would join a young manager on a veteran staff that already features Rudy Jaramillo.