• Top Free Agent Closers for New York Yankees in 2025

    (Photo Credit: New York Yankees)

    The New York Yankees may be in the market for a new closer next season if current ninth-inning man Clay Holmes leaves in free agency. According to Randy Miller of NJ.com, the Yankees will likely prioritize re-signing star outfielder Juan Soto, which could limit their budget for retaining Holmes. In a recent article, Miller ranked the top potential closer options for the Yankees in 2025, both internal and external:

    1. Tanner Scott, LHP, Padres – The 30-year-old lefty, recently traded from the Marlins to the Padres, tops the list as the best closer set to hit free agency. With a 1.31 ERA and 18 saves so far in 2024, Scott would be a perfect fit for the Yankees but likely the priciest option.
    2. Carlos Estevez, RHP, Phillies – Acquired by the Phillies at the 2024 trade deadline, Estevez has converted his last 14 save chances. The 31-year-old is a cheaper alternative to Scott but still an excellent choice.
    3. Kirby Yates, RHP, Rangers – The 37-year-old former Yankee has resurrected his career, posting a 1.08 ERA with 20 saves for Texas. If the Yankees need a budget closer, the All-Star Yates could be their man.

    Other free agent options mentioned include Red Sox veteran Kenley Jansen and Orioles star Craig Kimbrel, though Miller argues they may not be the best fits for the Yankees.

    Internally, Miller highlights 30-year-old Luke Weaver as a potential closer conversion candidate. Weaver has excelled in a multi-inning relief role for New York in 2024, striking out 68 batters in 63 innings with a 2.86 ERA.

    As for Holmes, while his recent blown saves have soured some fans, Miller notes his overall success in pinstripes.Since joining the Yankees in a 2021 trade, Holmes has saved 67 games with a 79.8% conversion rate. The 31-year-old is hoping to return to the Bronx but knows the decision is out of his hands.

    The Yankees have some intriguing options to consider for the closer role if Holmes departs, with Scott and Estevez headlining a deep free agent class. How the Soto negotiations unfold will likely dictate how much New York can spend on a new ninth-inning arm.

    To read Randy Miller’s full analysis, including more details on each closer candidate, subscribe to NJ.com.

    Yankees free agents for 2025

  • Yankees Eyeing Electric Lefty Jesús Luzardo as Potential Off-Season Trade Target

     (Photo Credit: MLB.com)

    According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer, the Miami Marlins are expected to shop electric left-hander Jesús Luzardo this coming offseason. The Yankees, who have been linked to Luzardo in the past, could emerge as a potential suitor.

    Luzardo, currently sidelined with a lumbar stress reaction, boasts frontline starter potential but comes with injury concerns. The Marlins may look to capitalize on his talent and years of team control, but his health and performance upon returning could impact his trade value.

    Read the full story at Bleacher Report.