Yankees reliever Luke Weaver expected to earn big payday in free agency
originally appeared on The Sporting News

Luke Weaver has been a revelation for the Yankees since joining the team in 2023. After not panning out as a starter for most of his Major League career, Weaver has rejuvenated his career as one of baseball’s best relief arms, and it could pay dividends for him this winter.

Since joining the Yankees, Weaver is pitching to a 2.92 ERA with 12 saves, and 183 strikeouts in 154.1 innings of work in parts of three seasons. Weaver will be a free agent following this season, and should command a lucrative deal.

This season, Weaver is pitching to a 2.84 ERA, with 64 strikeouts in 54 appearances. As such, ESPN’s Jeff Passan expects Weaver to earn a significant payday this winter. 

“He's a closer for half the teams in baseball,” Passan said. “And he's going to get paid like it this winter. Weaver just needs to keep his home run rate down.”

For the Yankees, losing Weaver could be a serious hit to their bullpen. Devin Williams has struggled, Jake Bird — who was sent down after being traded to the Yankees — Camilo Doval, and David Bednar have all been up-and-down since being acquired by New York. Additionally, Jonathan Loasiga has been bitten by the injury bug once again, and the team has really only gotten consistent production out of Fernando Cruz and Tim Hill, aside from Weaver. 

For now, Weaver will be part of a Yankees bullpen that is looking to right the ship in time for the playoffs. The Yankees are currently still in the mix for the AL East division crown, and are firmly in the Wild Card mix as well. 

#Yankees #reliever #Luke #Weaver #expected #earn #big #payday #free #agency