Prior to Game 2 of their American League Division Series against Baltimore, the New York Yankees announced that they have designated pitcher Cory Wade for assignment, ending the 29-year-old right-hander’s 16-month stint with the organization.

The move was made in order to open a roster spot for RHP Dellin Betances, who was reinstated from the 60-day disabled list. Betances, who pitched at both Triple-A Scranton and Double-A Trenton this year, was shut down in late-August due to arm inflammation and placed on the 60-day DL to accommodate Andy Pettitte’s return in mid-September, but needed to be removed so he could pitch in the Arizona Fall League.

Wade joined the Yankees last June after being released from his Minor League deal with the Rays, and immediately became a big part of the bullpen. In 40 appearances last season, Wade was 6-1 with a 2.04 ERA, striking out 30 in 39.2 innings, and made one appearance in the ALDS against Detroit.

However, 2012 was a different story, and Wade finished the season 1-1 with a 6.46 ERA in 39 appearances. He got off to a strong start, posting a 2.35 ERA over 20 innings in April and May, but struggled badly in June and was re-assigned to Triple-A after a six-appearance stretch from June 16-29 that saw him allow 13 earned runs over just 5 1/3 innings.

Wade went 2-0 with a 2.27 ERA and five saves in 17 appearances for Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and was recalled on September 1 when rosters expanded; he made five September appearances for the Bombers, allowing four earned runs over 5 2/3 innings pitched, and was not placed on the ALDS roster.

Over parts of four Major League seasons with the Dodgers and Yankees, Wade is 11-6 with a 3.65 ERA in 161 games.

Follow Lou DiPietro on Twitter: @LouDiPietroYES