After playing his entire career in the New York Yankees organization, Tyler Austin was traded to the Minnesota Twins organization on November 30, prior to the trade deadline. The slugger was sent to the Twins in exchange for former all-star pitcher Lance Lynn. Lynn will likely take on a prominent role for a Yankee team gearing up for a World Series run.

The 26-year-old first baseman had been in the Yankees system throughout his 8 year career after being drafted in the 13th round of the 2010 MLB Draft. During his tenure in New York, he batted .230 with 15 home runs to go along with 43 RBI.

Austin has 56 career hits, arguably none bigger than his blow against Joe Kelly of the Boston Red Sox. Apart of the most memorable Yankees and Red Sox moment in recent history, Austin will forever hold a place in Yankees allure and in the minds of fans.

Austin hopes to have the opportunity to get more at-bats in Minnesota after joining a team that is on the outside looking in on the playoff picture. Despite franchise favorite Joe Mauer manning first base, the Twins have Logan Morrison on an expiring deal which should mean the Twins can afford to give Austin playing time when September calls-ups arrive. His play this season could be a potential audition for the 2019 season.

On joining the Twins organization, “it’s a good opportunity for me and I am just happy to be here.” pic.twitter.com/nhVHPPaolY — Samuel Berger (@UnfilteredSB) August 1, 2018

While he waits for his time with the big-league club to come around, Austin is currently stationed in Rochester for the Twins triple-A affiliate, the Red Wings. His former team, the Scranton-Wilkes Barre Railriders were in town the same time when Austin was traded. In his second at-bat with his new club, Austin went deep, 454-feet to left field against his former team, instantly one of the biggest moments of the season for the Wings.

A massive homer to left field for Tyler Austin going 450+ for his first hit as a member of the Rochester Red Wings. @UnfilteredAXS pic.twitter.com/xbQgas0tmz — Samuel Berger (@UnfilteredSB) July 31, 2018

“Squared a few balls up today and that’s the big thing. Felt pretty good and gotta keep it going,” Austin said following his first game as a Red Wing. “No matter how far it goes, a homer is a homer.”

“Got a few balls up today and that’s the big thing. Felt pretty good and gotta keep it going.” – Tyler Austin on getting his first hit as a member of the Twins organization. pic.twitter.com/5fGeicdxOY — Samuel Berger (@UnfilteredSB) August 1, 2018

Austin’s immediate role in the organization remains to be seen. Red Wings Manager Joel Skinner said, “he’s like any other player on our 40 man roster…right now we are just trying to get him acclimated to the Minnesota Twins.”

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