Bullpen has been a constant problem for the New York Yankees this year. Due to lack of notable relief arms, the minor league rookie have so far failed to cover up for the injured stars. The bullpen’s overall ERA fell out of the top 10 list and that has only added to the team’s losing streak.
Moreover, with 2024 MLB season reaching its halfway stage, its important for the Yankees front office to take adequate measures and strengthen the bullpen force before it gets too late. On that note, lets look at five such relief options the Yanks can target at the upcoming trade deadline.
1. Tanner Scott
Tanner Scott, currently with the Miami Marlins, is a left-handed reliever known for his high strikeout rate and electric stuff. Scott’s fastball-slider combination makes him a tough matchup for left-handed hitters, and his ability to miss bats is a valuable asset in high-leverage situations. With a career strikeout rate of over 12, Scott could provide the New York Yankees with a reliable late-inning option, especially against lefty-heavy lineups.
2. Robert Suarez
Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres has emerged as a dominant force in the bullpen. With a fastball that regularly touches 100 mph and a devastating slider, Suarez has quickly become one of the most reliable relievers in the league. His ability to force weak contact and generate strikeouts makes him a prime target for the Yankees. Adding Suarez would not only bolster their bullpen but also give them a versatile arm capable of handling multiple roles, from middle relief to closing out games.
3. Lucas Erceg
Oakland Athletics relief arm, Lucas Erceg, is a relatively new name in the bullpen market but has shown tremendous potential. Transitioning from a minor league infielder to a major league pitcher, Erceg has impressed with his command and mound presence. He has a career 4.37 ERA with 101 strikeouts since debuting in 2023. Erceg’s ability to pitch multiple innings and handle various situations would provide the Yankees with much-needed flexibility.
4. Mason Miller
Mason Miller is another big name in the Oakland Athletics bullpen who is young and a hard-throwing right-hander relief pitcher. With a fastball that can hit almost triple digits, Miller has the potential to develop into a dominant reliever. Although still somewhat unproven at the major league level, his upside is considerable. He has a career 2.91 ERA with 98 strikeouts and 14 saves. Hence, the Yankees could benefit from his raw talent and high ceiling, adding a potential future closer to their bullpen mix.
5. Michael Kopech
Last but not least is Chicago White Sox reliever Michael Kopech. Kopech has the stuff to be a game-changer in the bullpen. Despite some injury concerns in the past, his recent performances have been encouraging. This year, he posed a 4.50 ERA in 36 games with 50 strikeouts. Interestingly, the pitcher’s ability to overpower hitters with his fastball and complement it with a devastating slider makes him a perfect fit for the New York Yankees’ high-leverage situations.
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