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  • Devin Williams Responds to Yankees Fans Chanting for Luke Weaver

    Devin Williams Responds to Yankees Fans Chanting for Luke Weaver

    The New York Yankees’ bullpen has been a hot mess this season and Friday night’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays only added to the problem. Closer Devin Williams blew another save and the crowd at Yankee Stadium was chanting “We want Weaver”. The 30-year-old right-hander didn’t get an out in the 9th inning, gave up a single, hit a batter and a 2-run double to Alejandro Kirk that turned a 2-1 lead into a 4-2 loss.

    Williams’ struggles have reached a boiling point and his response to the growing fan unrest was as cold as the game itself.

    “Everybody Has Their Opinion”: Williams on the Chants

    When asked about the crowd’s chants for Luke Weaver, Williams said: “Everybody has their opinion”

    When pressed further on how it made him feel, he said: “I don’t have an opinion on that.”

    Clearly Williams is feeling the weight of his recent performances—or lack thereof. His ERA is 11.25 over 10 appearances this season and opponents are batting .286 against his once unstoppable “Airbender” changeup. The pitch that used to be almost unhittable now has a 22.4% whiff rate and a .486 expected slugging percentage—big drops from his 2024 season.

    What’s Wrong With Devin Williams?

    Williams didn’t sugarcoat it after the game. “Nothing is working right now,” he said.

    The numbers back him up. Hitters are squaring him up more and his command is spotty at best. For a guy who lives on deception and movement, even small mistakes can be disastrous. And for Williams, those mistakes have come at the worst times.

    Despite earlier votes of confidence from manager Aaron Boone and pitching coach Matt Blake, the pressure is mounting for the Yankees to reevaluate Williams as closer. When asked if a change was coming, Boone hedged: “We’ll see,” meaning all options are on the table.

    Luke Weaver: The Fans’ Choice

    While Williams stumbles, Luke Weaver has been the most reliable arm in the Yankees’ bullpen. The 31-year-old righty has thrown 13 scoreless innings to start the season, striking out 13 and allowing just 2 hits. The fans have noticed and are growing louder in their demands to see him as closer.

    Weaver’s performance is the opposite of Williams’. Where Williams can’t find answers, Weaver is providing stability and big time pitching when the team needs it.

    The Decision Ahead

    The Yankees are at a fork in the road. Do they stick with Williams and hope he gets it back or go with Weaver as closer? The choice will have big implications for the team’s future. One thing is for sure, the Yankees need to win these close games if they want to be in the AL East hunt.

    For now, the tension between the struggling incumbent and the rising alternative is the juiciest subplot of the season. Fans may be chanting for Weaver, but ultimately it’s up to the coaching staff to make the tough call.

  • How Two Ex-Yankees Stars Are Leading Their New Team to the Top of the AL

    How Two Ex-Yankees Stars Are Leading Their New Team to the Top of the AL

    The New York Yankees’ decision to let go of infielder Gleyber Torres and right-handed reliever Tommy Kahnle after the World Series run has been a huge win for the Detroit Tigers. Both players signed one-year deals with their new team during free agency and have become key pieces for the AL Central leaders.

    Gleyber Torres: A New Beginning in Detroit

    After seven years in pinstripes, Gleyber Torres signed a $15 million deal to join the Tigers for 2025. So far, so good.

    Torres has been awesome at the plate and in the field. As of this writing, he’s hitting .323/.379/.462 and can do it all. He’s been a stabilizing force up the middle and his glove work and leadership has been impressive.

    For Torres, this fresh start in Detroit seems to have rekindled his game. After the Yankees didn’t re-sign him (likely because of Jazz Chisolm Jr. who they acquired at the trade deadline last year) the Tigers swooped in and got a steal.

    Tommy Kahnle: The Tigers’ New Closer

    On the mound, Tommy Kahnle has slid into the role of closer for the Tigers. The 35 year old signed for $7.75 million and has already paid dividends. In 6 games he has a 1.29 ERA and 3 saves.

    He’s been lights out, as evidenced by this:

    Kahnle’s experience in big situations from his time with the Yankees has translated perfectly to his new team. With the Tigers young roster needing guidance, Kahnle’s calm and playoff experience has been huge in the bullpen.

    Why the Yankees Let Them Go

    While the Yankees decision to non-tender Torres and Kahnle may seem surprising, it wasn’t without reason. Jazz Chisolm Jr. filled the void left by Torres and the Yankees offseason bullpen overhaul (including the addition of Devin Williams) made Kahnle expendable in Brian Cashman’s eyes.

    But losing two key contributors from last year’s playoff run was going to leave some fans wondering what could have been. For now though, both teams are happy with their decisions.

    Detroit’s Big Bets Are Paying Off

    GM Jeff Greenberg knew the Tigers needed veteran leadership to go with their young core after coming up one game short of the ALCS last year. By signing Torres and Kahnle, Greenberg filled two big holes—middle infield and late inning relief—on team friendly deals.

    So far so good. The Tigers are in first place in the AL Central thanks in large part to the two former Yankees.

    Playoff Matchup Looms?

    With the Yankees and Tigers in their divisions in first place, a playoff matchup is looking more and more likely. If these two teams meet in October, it will be fun to see how Torres and Kahnle do against their old team. Will they prove their worth even more or will the Yankees show they made the right call in letting them go?

    Only time will tell but one thing is for sure, both players are thriving in their new roles and their impact on the Tigers can’t be overstated.

  • Yankees Fans React to Will Warren’s Struggles in Loss to Rays

    Yankees Fans React to Will Warren’s Struggles in Loss to Rays

    The Yankees played their division rival Tampa Bay Rays last night and fans were left unhappy. Will Warren was given the ball to start and he didn’t last long. Warren went 1.2 innings and gave up 1 run and 4 hits before Boone pulled him.

    It wasn’t what the Yankees needed especially with Cole out for the season. The bullpen settled things down, but Warren’s start set the tone early, and Yankees fans were quick to vent online.

    Yankees Fans Speak Their Mind

    Yankees fans are loud and social media has only made them louder. After Warren’s brief appearance, Twitter (now X) blew up with reactions from the fan base. Here’s a sampling:

    • “Another rough outing from Warren. How much longer are we going to stick with him?”
    • “This is unacceptable. We can’t afford starts like this against division rivals.”
    • “Gerrit Cole is out, and this is what we get? Yikes.”

    It’s no secret Yankees fans have high expectations even when the team is dealing with injuries. When performances like Warren’s happen against teams like the Rays emotions run high.

    Warren’s Struggles So Far This Season

    Warren’s 2025 hasn’t been easy. He’s appeared in 4 games with a 5.17 ERA. A long way from what the Yankees need from the rotation. He’s shown flashes but outings like this one against the Rays highlight the inconsistency that has plagued him all season.

    For context Warren was supposed to be a big contributor this season. Instead inconsistency and command issues have overshadowed any progress he’s made. With Gerrit Cole out the pressure is on guys like Warren to step up – and fast.

    Why This Sucks Against the Rays?

    Losing to division opponents always hurts, but it hurts more when key players don’t show up. The Rays are always in the AL East mix and every game between these two teams matters. A stinker like Warren’s not only puts the Yankees in a hole early but gives the Rays momentum to ride all game.

    The Yankees came into this one 11-7, good enough to be in the mix. But with Cole out for the year the rotation is thinner than ever. They need arms to step up if they want to stay on top of the division—and Warren’s recent struggles aren’t helping.

    What’s Next for Warren and the Yankees?

    One bad start doesn’t define a player but Warren’s performance against the Rays adds to the growing concerns about his future. Manager Aaron Boone will give him more chances to prove himself but patience wears thin in New York—especially when playoff hopes are on the line.

    The Yankees have a talented team that can win a championship but their pitching staff needs answers soon. If Warren can’t find consistency the team may look elsewhere for solutions, whether internal promotions or external moves.

  • Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. Ejected, Criticizes Umpire on X—Breaking MLB Rules

    Yankees’ Jazz Chisholm Jr. Ejected, Criticizes Umpire on X—Breaking MLB Rules

    During Thursday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays, New York Yankees second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. got tossed in the 7th inning. It was over a called third strike, and he got into it with home-plate umpire John Bacon.

    Minutes later, he posted on his X (formerly Twitter) “Not even f—ing close!!!!!” which was quickly deleted, but not before it got attention and people asking about discipline. MLB has rules against using electronic devices during games, and players are not allowed to criticize umpires under the MLBPA’s social media policy.

    The Incident: What Happened on the Field?

    It all started when Rays reliever Mason Montgomery threw a 3-2 fastball that Chisholm thought was below the zone. Bacon called it a strike and ended the at-bat. Chisholm immediately went to Bacon and television cameras caught him mouthing, “That was not close.”

    Yankees manager Aaron Boone came out of the dugout to try to calm things down but it was too late. As Chisholm walked away still talking he was tossed from the game. Chisholm threw his helmet towards the dugout and then headed to the clubhouse.

    Chisholm’s Reaction: A Player Speaks Out

    After the 6-3 win Chisholm said he posted on X “right away” from the clubhouse. When asked if he was worried about the consequences he said bluntly: “I don’t care.” He added: “I did what I did. I can live with that.”

    Despite his outburst Chisholm said he regretted how he handled the situation. “I feel like a lot of stuff hasn’t been going my way but that doesn’t give me an excuse to go out there and act like that,” he said. “I have emotions. I know I’ve acted like that in the past but that’s what I really worked on to get past now.”

    Chisholm said he’s made a lot of progress on controlling his emotions. He pointed out he didn’t get ejected last season—a big change from previous years when he was getting tossed multiple times a year. “Everybody makes mistakes,” he said. “I get emotional when I think I’m right.”

    Aaron Boone Weighs In: Managing Emotions in the Heat of the Moment

    When asked if Chisholm needed to find a better way to manage his emotions Boone said: “I’d like to be the one going there.” He was referring to stepping in to argue with the umpire himself. “It happens every now and then. Hopefully in the future that’s me.”He’s not too hard on them. “I don’t like our guys going [there] but I get it’s tough to lay off a 3-2 pitch like that. I get there’s going to be emotion there.”

    Chisholm’s Struggles at the Plate

    Chisholm’s tantrum may have been a one-off, but his season reflects bigger issues. Through 19 games, 6 of his 12 hits have been home runs. But overall: .272 OBP and a concerning trend of swinging and missing. Chisholm is 4th to last in the league in in-zone contact rate (69.4%) behind only Rafael Devers, Gabriel Arias, and Matt Wallner.

    Missing in-zone pitches likely contributed to his reaction on the 3-2 count. As Boone said, missing a borderline pitch can be frustrating for any hitter, but especially for one trying to get back in rhythm.

    League Investigates: What’s Next for Chisholm?

    An MLB spokesperson said the league is looking into it. If Chisholm violated the MLBPA’s social media policy or other conduct guidelines, he could be fined or suspended. Chisholm seems unfazed by the possibility of discipline, but the incident raises questions about how players navigate the line between expressing frustration and following the rules.

  • Yankees Reinforce Commitment to Diversity Initiatives Amid DEI Debate

    Yankees Reinforce Commitment to Diversity Initiatives Amid DEI Debate

    After the 2024 election, many companies and institutions in the US are scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Public opinion has shifted, and people are recognizing that these policies create division rather than inclusivity. But one organization isn’t following the trend: the New York Yankees.

    According to a recent article in the New York Daily News, the Yankees are doubling down on their DEI efforts despite all the criticism. The team’s commitment to left wing politics seems unwavering, even as others are backing away from what many now see as divisive practices.

    The Yankees’ Diversity Push Began in 2021

    In 2021, during the height of the national conversation around racial justice and equality, the Yankees formed a Diversity and Inclusion Committee. The mission? To “identify, engage and address issues related to equality, racial justice and inclusivity”.

    At the time it was framed as a response to “recent senseless tragedies in our communities”. Some praised the move, others saw it as performative virtue signaling – a way for the franchise to check the boxes of being progressive without actually making any changes.

    Fast forward to today, and the Yankees’ stance feels even more out of touch. But the Daily News – a left leaning publication – is celebrating the team’s decision to continue with DEI efforts.

    Yankees’ Official Statement

    Brian Smith, Yankees’ senior vice president of corporate and community relations, confirmed the team’s DEI agenda is still in play.

    “We are working with our Diversity and Inclusion Committee and our neighbors and community partners,” Smith told the Daily News. “Our position on this hasn’t changed, and our Diversity and Inclusion Committee is still at work.”

    This is the Yankees refusing to budge on their ideology over practicality.

    Why This Matters: Left-Wing Pressure vs. Reality

    The Daily News praised the Yankees for sticking to their DEI goals and even accused team president Randy Levine of being a hypocrite. Levine, who has ties to former President Donald Trump, was labeled as someone with a “well-documented history of racism” by the outlet—an accusation based on partisan talking points, not fact.

    Here’s the problem: DEI isn’t about diversity or inclusion anymore. It’s a test of ideological purity. Supporting someone like Trump means you’re anti-diversity in the eyes of the left-wing media. And the Yankees seem all too happy to play along, fearing backlash from the liberal New York press corps.

    A Bigger Picture: MLB Steps Back, Yankees Dig In

    Major League Baseball itself has taken a different approach. Earlier this year, MLB removed DEI from its website—a clear sign of the times. The Yankees are sticking to their guns on this.

    It’s hard not to see this as caving to left-wing activists and media. Instead of charting their own course based on common sense and fairness, the Yankees are giving in to external pressure.

    Don’t Give In to Ideological Bullies

    If you’re an organization trying to navigate this divided world, here’s the lesson: Don’t give in to ideological bullies. Whether it’s cancel culture, DEI mandates, or fear of bad press, giving in only makes things worse.

    The Yankees may get kudos from some for sticking to their DEI guns, but they’ll also lose fans who want unity over politics. As others adapt to the times, the Yankees’ intransigence could cost them goodwill—and maybe even tickets.

  • Aaron Judge Powers Yankees to Victory with Walk-Off Homer Against Royals

    Aaron Judge Powers Yankees to Victory with Walk-Off Homer Against Royals

    Through 18 games, Aaron Judge has once again shown why he’s the best hitter in baseball. He’s not just playing well; he’s rewriting the book on what’s possible on the plate. In a 4-3 win over the Kansas City Royals on April 16, he had another for the ages, the game winner, a tiebreaking home run in front of 43,720 at Yankee Stadium.

    The Numbers That Tell a Story

    Aaron Judge’s stats would be a masterpiece if numbers could be art. Through 18 games, Judge leads MLB in batting average (.409), on-base percentage (.519), and slugging percentage (.803). He’s also 1st in the AL in RBIs (21). His latest heroics included a 7th inning solo homer that broke a 3-3 tie and won the game.

    “He’s amazing,” said Cody Bellinger, whose diving catch in right field ended the game. “In any situation, he’s going to come out on top.”

    It’s too early for pace calculators in mid-April, but if Judge keeps this up, he’s on pace for 63 home runs this season. That would be right up there with his 2022.

    A Historic Start to the Season

    Judge isn’t just picking up where he left off in 2024; he’s surpassing even his own numbers. After setting the franchise home run record in 2022 (62) and posting career highs in 2024 (58, 144 RBIs, .458 OBP), he’s going even bigger.

    “I don’t look at any of that stuff,” Judge said after the game. “I just want to get on base—that’s the biggest thing.”

    Manager Aaron Boone agreed. “Nothing’s going to surprise me so I’m not going to put a ceiling on anything he does.”

    Game Recap: Yankees vs. Royals

    Early Struggles Turn Into Late Wins

    The Yankees fell behind early when the Royals scored in the first. But two guys who were struggling stepped up to turn the game around. Anthony Volpe who was 2 for 23, hit a 2 run double in the 3rd. Cody Bellinger who was 1 for 23, hit an RBI double down the 1st base line in the 4th.

    The Royals tied the game in the 5th on a Drew Waters single and a Kyle Isbel triple. But the stage was set for Judge to take over.

    Judge’s Game Winner

    Tied 3-3 in the 7th, Judge came up against John Schreiber. On a sinker cutting across the plate, Judge unleashed his power and hit the ball into the bullpen in right center for his 7th homer of the season.

    “It’s the most locked in I’ve felt at the plate,” Judge said. “I was just seeing the ball well.”

    Pitching Shines as Yankees Secure Momentum

    While Judge got all the headlines, the Yankees’ pitching staff was quietly great. Clarke Schmidt made his season debut and gave up 3 runs in 5 2/3 innings – not bad considering his longest rehab start was 4 innings.

    Mark Leiter Jr., Fernando Cruz and Cody Bellinger closed it out. Leiter struck out 2 in 1 1/3 perfect innings and Cruz navigated the 9th before Bellinger ended the game with a diving catch.

    “Maikel Garcia reached second and MJ Melendez hit a liner that hooked away from me,” Bellinger said. “But I got it. Those are the moments you live for.”

    Yankees Head to Tampa with Momentum

    The Yankees finished the homestand 4-2 and are rolling into Tampa. With Judge leading the way and Volpe and Bellinger chipping in, they’re gonna be trouble in the AL East.

    “This is what he does every year,” Schmidt said of Judge. “Nothing can stop him.”

  • Carlos Rodon Squanders Lead as Yankees Lose to Giants

    Carlos Rodon Squanders Lead as Yankees Lose to Giants

    Carlos Rodón walked into Sunday’s game against the San Francisco Giants with something to prove. After complaining about his recent walks and their damage, he was determined to turn it around. But history had other plans. Another walk proved to be the culprit, and a three-run homer by Jung Hoo Lee was the dagger that gave the Yankees a 5-4 loss at Yankee Stadium.

    A Promising Start Turns Sour

    Rodón had been dealing through five innings, looking like the ace the Yankees thought they were getting when they signed him to a $162 million deal. But then, history repeated itself. After allowing three hits and eight strikeouts, Rodón imploded in the sixth inning, walking a batter and then giving up a three-run homer to Jung Hoo Lee. The bomb not only erased a 3-1 Yankees lead but also ended the game. The loss was the Yankees’ (8-7) third in a row and Rodón and the team are searching for answers.

    “It’s just frustrating,” Rodón said after the game. “Falling behind guys. We had the momentum and I have to be better.”

    The Sixth-Inning Collapse

    Rodón started strong. Through five innings he had allowed only two base runners – one being Lee’s solo homer in the fourth – and seemed to have his stuff. But it all fell apart in the sixth.

    No. 9 hitter Christian Koss led off with a slow roller to shortstop that Anthony Volpe couldn’t quite snag. Rodón bounced back by striking out Heliot Ramos but trouble struck again when he walked Willy Adames on five pitches. That set up Lee, who jumped on a hanging curveball and crushed it for a three-run homer.

    “Just a terrible execution on a curveball that he punished,” Rodón said.

    Manager Aaron Boone agreed. “Not much you can do on the infield single, but then the walk ahead of the homer,” Boone said. “It’s that small separator between him being in a dominant position right now to — the reality is we’ve got to look at it as he’s throwing the ball incredibly well.”

    A Familiar Pattern

    This wasn’t the first time Rodón’s walks came back to bite him. In his previous start against Detroit, he walked the 8 and 9 hitters and a three run homer followed. Against Arizona, a leadoff walk turned into a two run homer two batters later.

    Through four starts this season, Rodón has walked 12 batters, 6 of whom have scored. For a team that can’t find consistency in the rotation, these are costly.

    Late Rally Falls Short

    The Yankees had chances to get back in the game. Jazz Chisholm Jr. was 0 for 24 and snapped out of it with a solo homer in the 8th to make it 5-4. Unfortunately that was as close as they would get.

    Earlier in the game the Yankees gave Rodón some early breathing room. Aaron Judge doubled and scored on Paul Goldschmidt’s RBI single in the 1st. Jasson Domínguez and J.C. Escarra followed with back to back doubles in the 2nd and Ben Rice added an RBI single to make it 3-0.

    But despite knocking out Giants ace Logan Webb after 5 innings, the Yankees couldn’t cash in.

    Insurance Run Proves Deciding Factor

    The Giants added an insurance run in the 7th when Casey Schmitt doubled and scored on a chopper that got past Paul Goldschmidt. That run proved to be the difference in the game.

    What’s Next for Rodón and the Yankees?

    Rodón was visibly frustrated after the game. “Up 3-1 in the 6th, I wanted to shut the door. I just missed the curveball and I got punished. Not good enough.”

    The rotation is already inconsistent, so Rodón’s struggles are a concern. But there were positives to take away – his swing and miss stuff was good and he was in the zone on the mound. Now he just needs to tighten up his command and not make those big mistakes.

    As the Yankees regroup, they need more from their starters to keep up in the AL East.

  • How to Watch Yankees Game Today: Free MLB Live Stream Options

    How to Watch Yankees Game Today: Free MLB Live Stream Options

    The New York Yankees are finally leaving the friendly confines of Yankee Stadium and heading to Pittsburgh for a three-game series against the Pirates. The action kicks off with the Pirates’ home opener on Friday, April 4, 2025, at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. If you’re wondering how to catch all the action, here’s everything you need to know about watching or streaming the game.

    Game Details

    What: MLB Regular Season
    Who: New York Yankees @ Pittsburgh Pirates
    When: Friday, April 4, 2025
    Where: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
    Time: 4:12 p.m. ET

    How to Watch Yankees vs. Pirates?

    TV Broadcast Options

    • In-Market: Tune in to YES Network (Yankees fans) or SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates fans).
    • Out-of-Market: Catch the game nationwide on MLB.TV .

    Streaming Services

    If you prefer streaming, here are your best options:

    • fuboTV: Start with a free trial and enjoy live sports, including MLB games. For out-of-market fans, you can add MLB.TV to your subscription.
      • Promo: $20 off your first month
      • Monthly Price: 84.99(afteraninitial64.99/month for the first month)
      • Features: Unlimited DVR, access to over 212 channels, and exclusive fubo Sports Network programming.
    • DirecTV Stream: A comprehensive option for live TV lovers, DirecTV Stream includes regional sports networks like YES and SportsNet Pittsburgh.
      • Monthly Price: Starts at $86.99
      • Features: Over 125+ channels, unlimited DVR storage, and thousands of on-demand titles.

    What Are the Differences Between fuboTV and DirecTV Stream?

    Both services offer great ways to watch live sports, but they cater to slightly different audiences:

    • fuboTV: Perfect for die-hard sports fans who want access to U.S. and international soccer, NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and more. It also offers exclusive fubo Sports Network content.
    • DirecTV Stream: Ideal for viewers who want full access to local TV stations, regional sports networks, and a broader selection of entertainment channels.

    Yankees vs. Pirates Series Schedule

    Here’s when and where you can catch each game of this exciting series:

    • Fri, Apr 4: NYY @ PIT, 4:12 p.m. ET – Pirates Home Opener (STREAM)
    • Sat, Apr 5: NYY @ PIT, 4:05 p.m. ET on YES (STREAM)
    • Sun, Apr 6: NYY @ PIT, 1:35 p.m. ET on YES (STREAM)
  • Yankees’ Trade Target Slated for All-MLB Second Team

    Yankees’ Trade Target Slated for All-MLB Second Team

    The 2025 season is off to a roaring start for the New York Yankees and the optimism is palpable in the Bronx. After sweeping the Milwaukee Brewers in the opening series the Yankees are looking like the offseason moves are going to pay off big time. Despite the injuries in the spring the team’s new roster—led by Max Fried, Paul Goldschmidt, Cody Bellinger and closer Devin Williams—is already making noise.

    But the Williams trade might have been the most impactful of all. With him on board the Yankees now have one of the best closers in the game shutting down games late. And early projections have him making the All-MLB Second Team as a relief pitcher.

    A Much-Needed Upgrade in the Bullpen

    As 2025 looms, the Yankees know they need to get their bullpen in order—particularly the closer role. Last season, Luke Weaver and Clay Holmes shared those high-pressure duties, but neither delivered the kind of consistency you need to shut down games late. That was especially true for Holmes down the stretch. Fans were left on edge in those high-leverage situations because of it.

    That’s where Devin Williams comes in. The Yankees acquired him in a blockbuster trade with the Brewers that sent Nestor Cortes to Milwaukee. That move made one thing clear: the Yankees are serious about solidifying their bullpen with one of the best closers in the game.

    Williams, known as the “Airbender” for his wicked changeup, missed a chunk of 2024 with stress fractures in his back. But when he was healthy, he was as dominant as ever. In just 22 appearances, he posted a 1.25 ERA, racked up 14 saves and—most impressively—struck out an eye-popping 43.2% of the batters he faced.

    Why Devin Williams Was Worth the Investment?

    The Yankees have historically done best when they have a closer who can shut the door on tight games-and Mariano Rivera and Aroldis Chapman at their best are the prime examples of that. Williams now gives them that kind of finisher. He can close out games and bring that much-needed stability to the late innings.

    Manny Randhawa at MLB.com has already flagged Williams as a potential All-MLB Second Team player this season. That’s a pretty exclusive club, with only Emmanuel Clase of the Guardians and Mason Miller of the Athletics projected to make the first team among relievers.

    Williams’ numbers speak for themselves-and they’re pretty impressive:

    • Three years running, his ERA has been under 2.00.
    • He consistently racks up strikeouts at a rate above 40%.
    • And that unique delivery and pitch mix he brings to the mound just dominates hitters.

    The Yankees are counting on Williams to make an impact this season. And they’re doing that despite him being in the final year of his contract.

    How Williams Fits Into the Yankees’ Championship Hopes?

    The Yankees’ offseason was all about shoring up those weaknesses. And they did just that—with a rotation reinforced by Max Fried, a lineup strengthened by Paul Goldschmidt and a whole lot of athleticism and power courtesy of Cody Bellinger. But the move that could really make or break their season was acquiring Williams.

    Last season, the Yankees struggled when the game was on the line. That was largely because their late-inning pitching just wasn’t reliable. Williams fixes that. He locks things down when it matters most.

    Manager Aaron Boone is going to rely on Williams heavily in 2025—especially in those big matchups against division rivals like the Blue Jays and Orioles. If the Yankees are going to take down that reigning champion Dodgers team, having a closer who can shut the door will be huge. That could be the difference-maker.

    Early Signs Point to Success

    The early signs are indeed promising. The Yankees’ offense is firing on all cylinders-and that bullpen, with Williams at the helm, looks better than ever. That’s giving fans a pretty clear idea of what this revamped roster is capable of—and it’s hard not to get caught up in that excitement.

    For Williams, staying healthy and dominating is the key. If he can do that, he’ll not only make the All-MLB team but also be a big part of getting the Yankees where they want to go: the World Series. And that’s the ultimate goal, of course— a World Series title.

  • Yankees’ Batting After Juan Soto Deal: Great, but Not Perfect

    Yankees’ Batting After Juan Soto Deal: Great, but Not Perfect

    The Yankees are off to a hot start in 2025 with a deeper, more athletic lineup that can score in bunches. But there’s one big hole – no reliable right-handed bat late in games. That showed up again in Tuesday’s 7-5 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks and is something the team needs to address if they want to win a World Series.

    The Missing Righty Bat

    In the 9th inning, down 7-4 against Arizona’s lefty closer A.J. Puk, the Yankees found themselves in a tough spot. Manager Aaron Boone had already pinch hit for switch hitter Jasson Dominguez for outfield defense, leaving three lefties – Austin Wells, Trent Grisham and Ben Rice – to face Puk. Switch hitter Oswaldo Cabrera, who struggles against lefties, was due up 4th.

    With no righty on the bench to pinch hit, Boone turned to Pablo Reyes, who lined out to center on the first pitch to end the game.

    This is a lingering problem with the otherwise great roster. The lineup is stacked with talent but there is no right handed bat off the bench or in a utility role.

    How Did We Get Here?

    Budget constraints have been the main culprit behind the Yankees’ void at third base- and elsewhere. Signing Paul Goldschmidt to first base left them with little room to maneuver. They went into spring training without a full-time third baseman or a high-end right-handed utility player to call their own.

    That void hasn’t changed much since spring training. The Yankees scouted other camps for a righty bat, but just couldn’t find the right fit. They remain open to making a trade, but so far, nothing’s materialized. And that’s a problem.

    Oswald Peraza was supposed to be part of the solution. But after hitting just .160 in spring training, he’s not exactly the answer to their late-game woes. He made the roster because he’s out of minor league options—and the Yankees didn’t want to risk losing him on waivers. That lack of production has put Boone in a tough spot.

    Potential Solutions

    While the Yankees work on that, here are some fixes:

    Jasson Dominguez’s Growth

    Dominguez can solve the problem himself by getting better defensively to the point where Boone feels comfortable leaving him in the game instead of using a defensive replacement. Or Dominguez can work on his swing from the right side and give the Yankees another righty bat.

    Oswald Peraza’s Time is Running Out

    Time is running out for Peraza to make this happen. If he can turn his tools into results he can still be the player the Yankees thought they drafted.

    Trade Opportunity

    Nothing has emerged yet but an attractive trade target could pop up during the season. The Yankees have shown they’re not afraid to make midseason moves to add to the roster.

    The Bright Side: A Lineup That Works

    Despite this issue the Yankees post-Soto offense has been awesome. Forget the 18 home runs in 4 games—let’s look at the bigger picture:

    Austin Wells Breakout

    Wells is already one of the top young catchers in the game. His 13 pitch at-bat in the 5th inning on Tuesday was a great example of his patience and plate discipline and sparked a 2 unearned run rally. Now we can debate whether teams would rather have Wells, Baltimore’s Adley Rutschman, the Mets’ Francisco Alvarez or Arizona’s Gabriel Moreno behind the plate.

    Athleticism Everywhere

    Cody Bellinger has speed and power, stole his first base of the season and showed he’s a threat on the bases. Ben Rice, Dominguez and Anthony Volpe are hitting the ball hard consistently and showing elite exit velocities.

    Yankee Stadium Talent

    Players like Dominguez, Bellinger, Rice, Goldschmidt and Wells all have swings that play well in Yankee Stadium. Add in Judge’s continued dominance and Stanton’s promising recovery from injury and you have a lineup that can thrive all season.

    Will Warren’s Debut

    Pitching prospect Will Warren went 5 strong innings in his last start, his fastball velocity dipped a bit in the 5th. Given the cold weather and the fact he’s still building up his endurance this isn’t a big deal. Warren is a bright spot in the Yankees rotation.