The New York Yankees have some work to do, and the majority of it will come in the form of pitching. While injuries to Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon create a level of concern with their starting rotation, they cannot neglect two glaring holes left in their bullpen by the departures of Devin Williams and Luke Weaver.
Despite a recent report that Williams is open to returning, Yankees GM Brian Cashman is not assuming it is a guarantee. Cashman recently spoke to the media, and he sounds ready to move on. What did he say exactly, and what does he see as a priority this winter? Here’s what you need to know.
Brian Cashman Focused on Replacing Devin Williams & Luke Weaver
Cashman recently attended a Covenant House Sleepout charity event. While at the event, he fielded questions about the Yankees and other topics.
He addressed a few of the needs he is looking to fill over the offseason for the Yankees.
“It’s always pitching first and foremost,” Cashman said on November 20, via social media clip. “The starting rotation was a plus for us all year, (it) didn’t work out for us in the postseason. The bullpen we fortified, but I think it needs to be more fortified.”
In another clip, he mentions the injuries to the starting rotation pitchers and his plan for that.
“Our rotation, on paper, is going to be really good when healthy,” Cashman revealed. “But, we start the season with Rodon and Cole recovering from their surgeries. So they won’t start until probably May. Because of that, there is some vulnerability on the front end of the season. So you want to fortify the rotation a little bit.”
Cashman continues by identifying who he needs to replace in the bullpen, which gives fans an idea of the kind of arms he’s looking for.
“We lost Weaver and Devin Williams out of the bullpen to free agency,” Cashman continued. “Those guys were important pieces to build bridges to get to our closer, Bednar. So we’ve got a lot of work to do.”
Relief Pitchers Linked to the New York Yankees
Looking at Weaver and Williams, it gives fans a glimpse into the profile of the relief pitchers that Cashman is looking for.
Both pitchers were used in late-game scenarios. Weaver recorded 21 holds to go along with eight saves and a 3.62 ERA. Alternatively, Williams posted 15 holds, 18 saves, and 90 strikeouts despite having a 4.79 ERA.
The Yankees are going to need to take all the help they can get in the bullpen. Adding two late-game relievers is now a top priority. But what free agents are available who fit that profile?
Brad Keller is one relief option who could also be a swingman. He’s been a starter for most of his career, but pitched from the bullpen for the Chicago Cubs in 2025. He recorded 25 holds and three saves while pitching a 2.07 ERA and a 0.96 WHIP.
Phil Maton is another potential setup man for the Yankees to pursue. He finished 2025 with 22 holds, five saves, and 81 strikeouts while posting a respectable 2.79 ERA.
Pete Fairbanks is a closer who has generated interest from other clubs. He’s primarily been a closer in recent memory, posting 25, 23, and 27 saves over the last three seasons. Fairbanks isn’t a strikeout machine, but his 2.83 ERA and 1.04 WHIP show his effectiveness in his role.
Caleb Thielbar is another relief arm who could be added at a bargain price. The 38-year-old recorded a career-high 25 holds, while also posting one save, 56 strikeouts, a 2.64 ERA, and a 0.88 WHIP.
There are many options for the Yankees to consider. One way or another, the holes of Weaver and Williams will be filled.
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