A few persons here may remember Jim Bouton using the phrase “I died” when he was sent back to the minors.
Sam also “died” yesterday as he was sent down to AAA. Deservedly so. The combination of a trade and Sam’s ineffectiveness sealed his fate. He still gives up too many hits and WHIPS of 1.47 and 1.65 can end a reliever’s career quickly.
But he (they) will eventually figure it out. He’ll be back. This year. But will he ever be 100% healthy? Hope so.
He has 4 years of contract control remaining but to date has only pitched a single season worth of innings due to his injury history. Would be interesting to see how he would be valued on the trade market.