MLB Rumors: Yankees Aggressive In Pursuit Of Upgrades To One Area Of Roster

November 07, 2024

The New York Yankees are entering this offseason with intense focus on shoring up their bullpen, aggressively pursuing top relievers to address a major need. 

With key arms like Clay Holmes, Tommy Kahnle, and Tim Hill reaching free agency, GM Brian Cashman is determined to rebuild a bullpen that lacked consistency in 2024. 

As MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported, the Yankees are "among the most aggressive" teams in the relief market, signaling Cashman's commitment to strengthening the team's high-leverage options to support closer Luke Weaver, who emerged as a standout last season.

One of Cashman's primary targets is left-hander Tanner Scott, who had a dominant 2024 season split between the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres. 

Scott, noted for his ability to induce weak contact—ranking in the 100th percentile in average exit velocity—is expected to command a four-year, $65 million contract, according to Spotrac. 

Other options include Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Jeff Hoffman, who posted a 2.17 ERA, and Carlos Estévez, who notched a 2.45 ERA and 26 saves last season. 

“We need at least one other guy to come in and make an impact,” an industry source said, emphasizing the Yankees' focus on securing reliable late-inning arms.

If the free-agent market doesn’t yield desired results, the Yankees are prepared to explore trades, with names like Milwaukee Brewers' Devin Williams and St. Louis Cardinals' Ryan Helsley reportedly on the table. 

Both pitchers bring elite capabilities, with Williams posting a 1.25 ERA post-injury and Helsley recording a Cardinals record of 49 saves. 

Balancing their bullpen needs alongside pursuits like re-signing ace Gerrit Cole and a potential marquee deal for Juan Soto, Cashman and the Yankees are in line for a bold offseason strategy to reclaim competitive strength for 2025.

Photo Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images



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