The 2024 MLB season has been a revelation of unexpected things for New York Yankees. From rookies stepping up to everyday roles to Luke Weaver thriving in an unfamiliar role of a closer, the Yanks successful regular season campaign had its own charm anchored by superstars.
Meanwhile, as New York Yankees gear up for the playoffs, skipper Aaron Boone is busy stacking up a completely balanced and formidable roster. As far as the closer role is concerned, Boone will be banking on Luke Weaver and Clay Holmes, with the former having an edge due to his late-season success.
Luke Weaver Is Peaking At The Right Time For Yankees
Luke Weaver’s journey to becoming the New York Yankees’ closer has been a remarkable tale. Just a year ago, he was a waiver claim, filling innings as a long reliever. Fast forward to October, and he has emerged as a crucial piece of the Yanks’ bullpen, effectively taking over the closer role and solidifying his status as a key player heading into the postseason. Weaver’s transformation began when he was re-signed in January for starting depth. But by March, he found himself on the Opening Day roster as a long man. He credits his tumultuous past for preparing him to perform in New York, a city where pressure is a constant. “I know I surprised the world a little bit,” Weaver reflected on his unexpected rise.
At 31, Luke Weaver finished the regular season with an impressive 2.89 ERA, 103 strikeouts, and no earned runs allowed over his final eight appearances. His emergence is particularly valuable for a New York Yankees bullpen that lost Michael King in a trade last offseason, making Weaver a vital asset capable of going multiple innings and closing out games. Manager Aaron Boone, particularly, praised Weaver’s development. “He’s a better pitcher than he’s probably ever been in his life. Whatever role I’ve put him in, he’s flourished,” he said. This season, Weaver has successfully adapted to his role, converting his first career save opportunity on September 6 and finishing the year with four saves. Overall, with the Yanks gearing up for the ALDS, all eyes will be on Weaver as he steps into the spotlight, ready to tackle the challenges of playoff baseball head-on.
Can Aaron Judge Squash Postseason Narrative?
Aaron Judge’s remarkable 2024 regular season has solidified his status as an MVP contender and one of the best offensive players in MLB history. However, as the postseason begins, his impressive stats reset, raising concerns among Yankees fans about his playoff performance. Judge’s last October appearance was disheartening, where he went just 1-for-16 in the 2022 ALCS against the Astros.
Across nearly 200 career playoff plate appearances, Aaron Judge holds a batting average of .211 and a .310 on-base percentage, with home runs coming at a less frequent rate compared to his regular season. Yet, history shows that even great players can overcome early struggles. Hence, Judge has a unique opportunity to not only lead the Yankees to a World Series but also to silence doubts about his playoff capabilities.
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