The dreaded 2023 MLB season is finally over for the New York Yankees. They played their season’s last series against the Kansas City Royals and lost 2-1. Fortunately, the team avoided finishing last, if it makes fans feel any better. Nevertheless, as the focus shifts towards 2024, here is a detailed list of players who are not expected to set foot in the Bronx in 2024.
Relievers Matt Bowman, Zach McAllister, Anthony Misiewicz
The late-season bullpen additions Matt Bowman, Zach McAllister, and Anthony Misiewicz did a decent job for the Yankees this year. McAllister, who made his debut a decade after his first draft, finished with a 10.80 ERA in five innings. Bowman did get enough chances, whereas Misiewicz met with an unfortunate accident. He got hit by a line drive, which ended his season prematurely. Overall, all these relievers served as short-term backups and are unlikely to return next year.
Kyle Higashioka
As Austin Wells made his way into the big leagues owing to a youth movement, Yankees regular catcher Kyle Higashioka had to take a backseat. He was stripped of his playing time, which put a question mark on his future in the Bronx. Speaking of numbers, the catcher scored at a .236 average and saved at a .987 fielding percentage behind the plate. The numbers aren’t staggering as such, and the age factor will play a part. Thus, Higashioka’s time in the Bronx seems more or less done for now.
Wandy Peralta
Wandy Peralta remained one of the most used relievers of the Yankees bullpen this season. He had a 2.83 ERA in 63 appearances before falling prey to injury. Having said that, the Bombers’ bullpen is crowded, and they don’t want to have a situation where too many cooks spoil the food. Thus, considering Peralta’s 2023 performance, he is most likely to be used as a trade chip in the coming off-season. Wandy deserves a good deal, just not with the Yanks.
Luke Weaver
Luke Weaver made a late entry to the Bronx after the Yankees claimed his off waiver in September. He got to play only three games, wherein he posted a 3.36 ERA in 13.1 innings. But then again, Weaver also seemed like a backup bullpen piece who could be shown the doors next season as he is set to hit free agency. The Yanks have better options to choose from.
Domingo German
Before the Yankees can look at Domingo German’s numbers, his off-field antics are something the front office will monitor closely. Germany’s 2023 season has remained controversial. From substance use suspension to alcohol abuse incidents, the pitcher has remained in the news for all the wrong reasons. In 19 starts, he recorded a 4.56 ERA. Moreover, barring the perfect game, nothing seems to be a highlight. He is set to become a free agent in 2025, but the Yanks are likely to cut him off in 2024 itself.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa
IFK’s transformation into a utility player was good enough to keep him from getting traded in 2023. However, no force can keep IFK from being dealt with in the coming off-season. After juggling around as many as nine positions, Kiner-Falefa settled for third base. But, Oswald Peraza’s surprise entry played a spoilsport. The Yankees have designated players for all positions and a relatively younger option for utility in Oswaldo Cabrera. Thus, IFK’s time in the Bronx seems up.
Luis Severino
Last but not the least is Luis Severino. Once proclaimed as the worst pitcher in the league, Severino staged an inspiring comeback by pitching back-to-back scoreless starts. However, before Severino could change the negative narrative around him, an oblique injury cut short his season. He will be a free agent in 2024, and considering his 2023 performance, the Yankees would intend to maintain distance from the pitcher for their own good.