According to the New York Post, the hurler — who will not be used as a starter in the first round of the playoffs because of inconsistencies down the stretch — will essentially be auditioning for a spot in the bullpen on Sunday.
As long as he gets a chance to pitch in the ALDS, a role as a reliever is fine with him. A roster spot is a roster spot.
"Every day here you have to prove yourself," Chamberlain told the Post. "I am excited to get the ball and go from there."
General manager Brian Cashman indicated earlier this week that Chamberlain will be competing with Brian Bruney, Chad Gaudin and Sergio Mitre for the final one or two spots on the ALDS roster. On Sunday, manager Joe Girardi will be looking to make sure he can be effective in a role that may have become unfamiliar to him over the past year.
In 31 starts in 2009, Chamberlain is 9-6 with a 4.78 ERA in 156 1/3 innings. The last time he pitched in relief was on Sept. 20, 2008. He began that season in the bullpen and was transitioned into a starter before suffering a shoulder injury and returning as a reliever at the end of the year.
"You want to see how quickly he warms up and how he does in a short stint," Girardi said. "Will it be what you are going to get in a series? It may not tell you that but I think it will give you a better idea."
New York opens up its postseason run this coming week against either the Tigers or Twins.
