Locastro, who was re-signed by the New York Yankees in March, has been optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the Yankees announced on Tuesday. 

The move keeps Locastro in the Yankees' organization — he had one minor league option remaining before the transaction — and will allow him to get playing time in the minors in preparation for a callup. Before being sent down to the minors, he had four hits in 19 spring training at-bats, two RBI, four runs and three stolen bases. 

Locastro rejoined the Yankees after being waived by the team after the 2021 season. He was claimed by the Boston Red Sox, but was not tendered a contract for this season. 

The three-month-long lockout prevented Locastro from signing with a team. But once the lockout ended, there was interest from a handful of clubs, including the Yankees. 

Locastro eyed a return to the Yankees, the team he rooted for while growing up in Auburn. He was traded to the Yankees in July and quickly established himself as a reliable reserve outfielder for the club. But more than two weeks after the trade, he tore his ACL — an injury that required season-ending surgery. 

Despite not having a team during the lockout, Locastro rehabbed his injury. Once the lockout ended, he was ready for spring training. He was cleared for baseball activities and passed a physical before signing with the Yankees. 

With Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, Locastro could play close to home. The RailRiders play in the International League — the same league that counts the Syracuse Mets as a member. The RailRiders open the season with a six-game series in Syracuse. The season opener was Tuesday. 

Locastro is expected to join the RailRiders later this week and may play in the series.