Team USA just got a little more left-handed.
Lefty Ryan Yarbrough will replace starter Joe Ryan on the Americans' World Baseball Classic roster, the team announced on Sunday.
Ryan was moved to the designated pitcher pool and will be available if the U.S. advances past the group stage.
Yarbrough, 34, is entering his second season with the New York Yankees after a brief stint with the Toronto Blue Jays.
In 19 games last year, the veteran posted a 4.36 ERA and 1.203 WHIP with 55 strikeouts in 64 innings. Eight of his 19 appearances came in starts.
Ryan, the Minnesota Twins ace, is coming off a season in which he recorded a 3.42 ERA and 194 strikeouts over 31 games (30 starts).
However, he has been sidelined early in spring training by lower-back inflammation.
The World Baseball Classic begins Wednesday with action on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
Team USA starts play Friday against Brazil at Daikin Park in Houston.
