The New York Yankees have traded right-handed reliever Adam Ottavino to the archrival Boston Red Sox in what is mostly a salary dump.

This is the first trade between the two American League East clubs since 2004.

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Ottavino counts for $9 million against the luxury tax threshold. Clearing his salary gives the Yankees the opportunity to add in other areas, while Ottavino will have the chance to revitalize his career in Boston.

Th 35-year-old was terrific in his first year with the Bronx Bombers, posting a 1.90 ERA and striking out 88 opponents in 66.1 innings during the regular season.

But Ottavino was roughed up for six hits and three earned runs in 2.1 innings during New York's ALCS loss to the Houston Astros. His poor showing carried over into 2020.

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Ottavino had a 5.89 ERA this past season. His peripherals (3.52 FIP) suggest he can still be effective, but the Yankees seized an opportunity to move his salary so as to address other areas.

New York very well still could be looking to re-sign veteran outfielder Brett Gardner. Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported the Yankees are Gardner's top choice, and the Bronx Bombers could use depth in the outfield.

Of course, the Yankees will have to replace Ottavino in the bullpen. But the added space might give them the flexibility to make a run at some of the top relievers still available, including late-game options like Trevor Rosenthal and Shane Greene, among others.

The Yankees have gotten busy as of late, signing veteran Corey Kluber and acquiring Jameson Taillon to provide rotation depth amid little payroll flexibility.

Now, New York has executed another salary dump by moving Ottavino, likely with other moves closely in mind.