Former Yankees rising star makes surprise Opening Day roster in NL West originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A former New York Yankees rising star pitcher has found his next destination, and it’s an Opening Day roster spot in the NL West.

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The pitcher? Jonathan Loaisiga. The team? The Arizona Diamondbacks.

ESPN’s Jorge Castillo reported the roster news on Saturday.

It wasn’t a given that Loisiga would make the Diamondbacks, but it’s a solid step for his career to try to turn things around and make the most out of the talent he was so long regarded for in the Yankees organization.

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Loaisiga had tantalizing talent. He had a 3.54 ERA for the Yankees and averaged 8.4 strikeouts per nine innings.

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He sustained multiple injuries that slowed his progression and made it tough to reach his potential, though.

Loaisiga posted on Instagram earlier this offseason to say goodbye to the Bronx with a message shared in both Spanish and English.

“Saying goodbye to the New York Yankees means closing a very important chapter in my life, filled with challenges, growth and moments I will carry with me forever,” he wrote on IG.

“I am about to begin a new challenge, but I leave with gratitude and pride,” Loaisiga continued on IG. “I wish you all the best, continued success, and many great accomplishments ahead. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

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Loaisiga is 31 years old now, and it’s not a given that he’ll perform well for Arizona.

Making the team is the first step, though, and the Diamondbacks will be hoping he can rekindle some of that positive Yankees energy.

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