In a move that adds another chapter to one of baseball's fiercest rivalries, former New York Yankees pitcher Tommy Kahnle is heading back to the Boston Red Sox organization after testing the open market.

The 36-year-old right-hander, who spent six seasons in pinstripes and recorded over 250 strikeouts in more than 195 innings for the Bombers, exercised a contract clause that made him available to all 30 MLB teams. However, after no club stepped up to offer him a major league roster spot, Kahnle has returned to Boston's Triple-A affiliate.

Kahnle originally signed a minor league deal with the Red Sox back in March, but his contract included an "upward mobility clause" that kicked in on May 1st. This clause allowed any other major league team to sign him to their active roster—but only if the Red Sox chose not to match the offer. When no team bit, Kahnle headed back to the minors.

For Yankees fans, this development is particularly interesting given the team's current bullpen situation. While the Bronx Bombers boast the American League's best record and feature MVP candidate Aaron Judge alongside rising star Ben Rice, their relief corps has been a glaring weakness. Outside of closer David Bednar, the bullpen has struggled to deliver consistent performances, leaving many to wonder if a familiar face like Kahnle could have provided some stability.

With Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole expected to return soon, the Yankees' rotation could become the best in baseball. But as the team sorts out its high-leverage relief options, it appears they weren't interested in a reunion with their former hurler. For now, Kahnle will continue his comeback bid in the Red Sox system, waiting for another opportunity to prove he can still get big-league hitters out.