Yankees Bullpen Overhaul
The Yankees have experienced significant changes in their bullpen this offseason. Key players like Devin Williams and Luke Weaver have left as free agents, both signing with the Mets. The team also made the decision not to tender offers to Jake Cousins, Scott Effross, Mark Leiter Jr., and Ian Hamilton. Additionally, Jonathan Loaisiga had his club option declined, while Allan Winans was released in order to explore an opportunity in Japan.
Returning Players and Current Depth
The team did exercise their option on lefty Tim Hill and re-signed both Ryan Yarbrough and Paul Blackburn to add depth. However, the current bullpen appears weaker than last season with Fernando Cruz, Camilo Doval, and closer David Bednar filling key roles. Let’s explore the options available in their system.
Jake Bird
Among the Yankees’ key bullpen acquisitions during the 2025 trade deadline, Bird was the least effective. He made only three appearances in August, yielding six earned runs in just two innings before being sent to Triple-A for the remainder of the year. Over his MLB career, Bird has pitched 232 1/3 innings with a 4.76 ERA and a career strikeout rate of 21.1%. However, he showcased improved strikeout ability in 2025 with a 26.6% rate over 55 1/3 innings. His effective groundball rate also suggests potential, especially with solid defense behind him.
Brent Headrick
Headrick was claimed off waivers from the Twins in February 2025, making 23 appearances in the majors before a forearm injury sidelined him. He posted a solid 3.13 ERA, but displayed troubling reverse splits, struggling against left-handed batters. Currently, Headrick primarily utilizes a fastball-slider combination but needs to improve his hard-hit rates if he hopes to find a consistent role in the bullpen.
Cade Winquest
Selected in the Rule 5 Draft from the Cardinals, Winquest is a promising 25-year-old righty with a solid 3.99 ERA across 106 innings in the 2025 season. While he has shown improved control, his groundball rate dropped significantly, making him less reliable. It may be challenging for Winquest to remain on the major league roster, and he would likely best serve in low-leverage situations.
Other Options
Yerry De los Santos also showed promise while bouncing between Triple-A and the majors, with a notable 3.28 ERA in 25 big-league appearances. While his groundball rate has been impressive, his strikeout and walk rates need improvement. New additions like Elmer Rodriguez and Chase Hampton provide depth but will require further development to become effective major leaguers.
Conclusion
Currently, the Yankees’ bullpen offers a mix of inexperienced players alongside established options such as Bednar and Cruz. Given the changes and potential concerns around depth, the team might consider adding experienced middle relievers or a proven lefty to strengthen their pen further. Possible targets could include free agent Andrew Chafin or potential trades that could solidify their high-leverage capabilities.
