The two biggest drawbacks of the season for the New York Yankees were infield and bullpen depth. The team lacked a consistent third baseman and relief pitcher all season long. In the bullpen, especially, closer Clay Holmes turned into a liability in the second half of the season.
Moreover, the New York Yankees unwillingness to trade for a closer during August 1 deadline proved fatal. Hence, manager Aaron Boone went for extreme measure and internally promoted Luke Weaver who has so far been outstanding. Amid a series of changes, the Yanks bullpen has finally gained traction that too just days ahead of the playoffs.
New York Yankees’ Bullpen Sees Jump In Most Valuable List
The New York Yankees’ bullpen, often a subject of concern throughout the season, has transformed into one of their key strengths as the team heads toward the playoffs. After dealing with inconsistency and injuries earlier in the year, the bullpen has found a solid footing. The change of fortune dates back to the hallmark decision of replacing Clay Holmes as closer to appointing Luke Weaver into the challenging role. Weaver has had two saves in as many attempts and is looking solid to be closer in the postseason. On the other hand, Ian Hamilton returned from IL to pitch scoreless innings against the Boston Red Sox. And recent metrics suggest that the Yanks bullpen is finally competitive and strong again.
In the first 140 games, FanGraphs deemed the New York Yankees bullpen as the eighth most valuable with a 3.89 average ERA. However, in the past 10 games, the Yankee relief pitchers have been ranked second most valuable, with a majors-best 1.16 ERA. “I feel like because the group complements each other very well. I feel like that mixture, that complement, hopefully serves them all well,” manager Aaron Boone opined. Indeed, the Yankees’ bullpen is peaking at the right time, and this newfound stability gives the team a critical edge heading into the playoffs. With a balance of veterans and emerging stars, they now have one of the most formidable relief corps in the league, making them a dangerous team in October. If the bullpen can maintain this form, it could be the X-factor that propels the Bronx Bombers deep into the postseason and hopefully through the World Series.
Yanks Part Ways With Promising Trade Prospect
The New York Yankees took a major bullpen decision ahead of the playoffs. Left-hander Victor Gonzalez, who was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last month, was released from the team last Sunday. Notably, the relief pitcher was designated for assignment back in June. But he stayed back in a minor league contact.
Across 21 games this year, Victor Gonzalez had a 4.50 ERA. He had a 3.86 ERA at the beginning of the season which raised red flags for the New York Yankees. And now with the playoffs approaching, the Yanks are certainly tying loose ends to ensure they set no foot wrong in knockout stages where the stakes will be highest than ever for the Bronx Bombers.
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