The New York Yankees find themselves in an interesting position as the current market offerings present more allure than ever. The tragic news of Juan Soto leaving the Bronx for Queens has brought increased attention to the free agent pool. Now, the Yankees are considering adding some bullpen pieces, perhaps a reliever or two.

Strengthening the Yankees Bullpen with Free Agent Relievers

Two Potential Free Agent Relievers for a Stronger Yankees Bullpen

The Yankees are facing the loss of relief pitchers Tim Hill and Tim Mayza. Ironically, they also lost former closer Clay Holmes to the Mets in free agency. This free agency purge is a natural way to part ways with unwanted players and creates the need to replace and replenish those areas.In the past few weeks, some pitching pieces were removed from the diverse list of free agents. Former Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano was non-tendered and signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.The New York Mets picked up former Blue Jay southpaw reliever Genesis Cabrera, and the Atlanta Braves picked up Cleveland prospect Connor Gillispie. These were viable options for the Yankees to strengthen their bullpen. The Bronx Bombers must look at the current availability of arms.

Free Agent Reliever, RHP Paul Sewald

Yankees management is still considering a closer for 2025. While Luke Weaver seems to be the front-runner, it's not set in stone. Weaver is fresh on the closer role and has earned the chance, but the Yankees owe no one anything, especially after their World Series loss. Paul Sewald is on the market and could be a good option.In 2024, Sewald was the 27th-ranked closer, saving 16 games and throwing 39 2/3 innings with only four blown saves. He had a 4.31 ERA, a 1-2 record, struck out 43 batters, and walked 10. Sewald can be flexible, able to serve as a setup man in front of Luke Weaver or rotate in and out of the closer role depending on the situation. He uses a fastball, sweeper, and changeup. His command is good, and his pitch usage is satisfactory. Although he doesn't have a lot of velocity, he can spin the ball well to generate outs.

Free Agent, RHP Kirby Yates

Another reliever of similar caliber is right-hander Kirby Yates. He pitched for the Texas Rangers as a closer and ranked seventh in the league. Yates saved 33 games in 61 2/3 innings with only one blown save and a 7-2 record and a 1.17 ERA.Yates has been in the league for 10 years, including two all-star appearances (2019, 2024), but he didn0t play in 2021 due to injury. This past season, he showed he can execute his repertoire well in short stints and be effective. He is 37 years old and uses a four-seam fastball, split-finger, and a slider. His fastball sits around 94 mph with a 16.9-inch vertical break and a 13.7-inch arm side horizontal break with a deviation score of 15.In 2024, Yates generated 45.5% groundouts, 34.7% flyouts, and only 4.1% barrel contact. He also generates rollover outs and gets the ball in play for his defense. The right-handed veteran would be a great addition to the Yankees bullpen in the late innings, complementing their current closer. He can take on the closer role or work as a setup man. His experience is valuable to the younger players, as he has playoff experience and has pitched in both leagues.If the Yankees want to prioritize a reliever, both Paul Sewald and Kirby Yates would be excellent options with the goal of winning in mind.