The Yankees have compiled one of the hardest-throwing bullpens in history, and despite the high cost of most of the arms, they didn’t have to go far to learn about two of them.
Having reached a deal with free agent right-hander Adam Ottavino this week, the Yankees now have a pair of New York City native relievers, whose history goes back well over a decade.
Ottavino and Dellin Betances grew up in the city, went to high school in Brooklyn and played for the same summer league program.
“It’s very unusual,” said Mel Zitter, who coached both Ottavino and Betances when they were with Youth Service League, one of the top summer programs in the area.