As Spring Training approaches, excitement is palpable among Yankees fans as they look ahead to the 2025 season.
Pitchers and catchers will report to Tampa, Florida, on February 11, and our “Around the Horn” series continues by shining a spotlight on the revamped bullpen.
New Era with ‘Airbender’ Williams
The Yankees are entering a new era in their illustrious history of closers with the addition of Devin Williams, who is ready to embrace this significant role.
While he recognizes that no one can truly fill the legendary shoes of Mariano Rivera, Williams sees this as a chance to forge his own identity within the franchise’s extensive legacy of bullpen talent.
Williams is genuinely thrilled about joining the Yankees and appreciates the franchise’s outstanding track record of top-tier closers.
He dreams of adding his name to the prestigious list of talents that have donned the pinstripes.
The electrifying environment of Yankee Stadium energizes him, and he believes that the fans’ enthusiasm will elevate his game on the mound.
The 30-year-old right-handed pitcher, a two-time All-Star and former National League Reliever of the Year, became part of the Yankees on December 13 after a trade with the Brewers.
The Yankees sent lefty Nestor Cortes, infielder Caleb Durbin, and some cash considerations to Milwaukee in exchange for Williams.
Renowned for his remarkable changeup, affectionately nicknamed “Airbender” due to its screwball-like motion, Williams has boasted an impressive 1.66 ERA since the start of the 2022 season, the best of any major league reliever.
His last season saw him secure 14 saves and maintain a stellar 1.25 ERA across 22 appearances, bouncing back from previous injuries to return to top form.
Revamped Bullpen Dynamics
Initially anticipating a move to the Dodgers as he neared free agency, Williams was pleasantly surprised by the Yankees’ interest.
Their enticing offer quickly shifted his focus and filled him with gratitude and excitement at the idea of joining one of baseball’s most storied franchises.
The Yankees’ bullpen dynamic has seen significant changes since their last World Series appearance, especially after Clay Holmes departed for the Mets.
They also saw the exit of several free agents, including Tim Hill, Tommy Kahnle, and Tim Mayza, leaving them currently without a left-handed option in the relief lineup.
However, there’s hope that the Yankees can bring back Hill, who delivered an impressive 2.05 ERA in 35 games last season.
Additionally, Luke Weaver, who impressed as a closer in September, has been refining his mechanics and reducing earned runs, showcasing his potential within the bullpen.
Weaver’s postseason performance further highlighted his capabilities, exhibiting a solid 1.76 ERA over 15.1 innings.
He prefers to think of himself as a dependable pitcher focused on getting outs—titles don’t matter to him.
Manager Aaron Boone may turn to Weaver in high-leverage situations, making the most of his versatile skill set.
Key Additions and Options
Ian Hamilton will make a comeback as a setup man after posting a 3.82 ERA in 35 games last season, despite a stint on the injured list.
Jonathan Loáisiga is also working towards returning after undergoing Tommy John surgery, with pitching coach Matt Blake anticipating his return by mid-April or early May.
Loáisiga is expected to be a crucial high-leverage asset once he’s fully healthy.
In a noteworthy December trade, the Yankees dealt catcher Jose Trevino for right-hander Fernando Cruz, known for his high velocity.
Entering the bullpen just shy of his 35th birthday, Cruz arrives following a season in which he recorded a 4.86 ERA over 69 appearances and demonstrated an impressive strikeout rate.
Cruz will face competition in middle relief from talented right-handers like Jake Cousins, who posted a commendable 2.37 ERA over 37 games last year, and Mark Leiter Jr., who is looking to bounce back after a shaky postseason following a mid-season trade.
For long relief, the Yankees have depth options in JT Brubaker and top prospects Will Warren (No. 5), Clayton Beeter (No. 19), and Yoendrys Gómez (No. 20), all bringing previous big league experience to the table.
Other contenders such as Scott Effross, Yerry De Los Santos, and Michael Arias will also compete for vital roles.
As Spring Training draws near, enthusiasm grows among Yankees players and fans alike.
With fresh talent and a revitalized bullpen, the team is gearing up for a thrilling season full of promise and immense potential.
