Today’s birthday spotlight shines on Michael Pineda, a complex figure in baseball marked by injuries and controversies. Once brought to the Yankees through a notable trade, Pineda was expected to become a key member of the New York pitching lineup during the early to mid-2010s.
However, his journey was hindered by both on-field injuries and off-field issues, preventing him from reaching the heights that he and his teams anticipated. Though he had his share of impactful performances, his career didn’t unfold as he or the franchises envisioned.
Michael Francisco Pineda
Born: January 18, 1989 (Yaguate, Dominican Republic)
Yankees Tenure: 2012-17
Pineda, who signed with the Seattle Mariners for $35,000 at just 16, quickly established himself as an imposing figure on the mound. Standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 280 pounds, he was drafted late in 2005 and arrived with considerable potential.
Making his MLB debut with Seattle in April 2011, Pineda was ranked 16th in Baseball America’s preseason Top 100 Prospects. The publication highlighted his size, pitching style, and significant velocity, noting his ability to maintain control despite a high-energy delivery.
In his rookie season, Pineda pitched effectively, completing 171 innings over 28 starts with a commendable 3.74 ERA. His first half of the season was particularly outstanding, earning him an All-Star nod and recognition in the Rookie of the Year voting.
After his strong debut, the Yankees traded for Pineda, exchanging highly regarded prospect Jesús Montero among others. However, his tenure began with setbacks, including a shoulder issue that led to season-ending surgery. While he managed to find success in the 2014 season, injuries and controversies plagued his career, including an infamous pine tar incident against the Red Sox. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, his time with the Yankees ended in 2017 due to elbow surgery. He later had mixed success with the Twins and finished his MLB career with the Tigers in 2022, leaving behind a legacy marked by both talent and missed opportunities.
