Breaking News: New York Yankees Positioned as Prime Contender for Reliever Featuring Impressive Sub-1.55 ERA
The New York Yankees are poised to make significant changes during the offseason, with a primary focus on acquiring superstar Juan Soto. Nonetheless, the smaller adjustments they plan to implement will also be critical.
One area that requires enhancement is the Yankees’ bullpen, particularly its latter stages. Several options will emerge in the offseason, including left-handed pitcher Tanner Scott. Scott was traded to the San Diego Padres during the trade deadline, which strengthened their bullpen.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com identified the Yankees as a “potential fit” for Scott as he enters the free-agent market.
“Scott has become one of the premier relievers in baseball, earning his first All-Star selection this summer,” Feinsand wrote on September 12. “He posted a 1.18 ERA and 18 saves in 44 appearances with the Marlins before his trade to the Padres in late July, where he assumed a setup role.”
Feinsand further remarked, “Scott is expected to be the best closer available this offseason, and given the high demand for reliable relief pitching, he will likely attract numerous suitors.”
Scott Recognized as a Top 25 Free Agent
Scott’s performance in 2024 marked a career highlight, culminating in his first All-Star nod and a remarkable 1.54 ERA over 70 1/3 innings pitched.
In his 70 appearances, he recorded 83 strikeouts, which may lead to a significant price tag for the Yankees.
His impressive performance earned him a spot at No. 18 on Joel Reuter’s top 25 free agency list for Bleacher Report.
Reuter noted on September 20, “In the past 15 years, only Zack Britton (4.1 in 2016) and Blake Treinen (4.4 in 2018) have achieved a 4-WAR season among relief pitchers, underscoring Scott’s substantial value this year.”
“The hard-throwing lefty has accumulated 53 saves and 37 holds with a 2.68 ERA and 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings in 209 appearances over the last three years, positioning him to potentially become the highest-paid reliever in the 2024-25 class.”
Hal Steinbrenner’s Concerns About Payroll
The New York Yankees have long maintained one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball.
However, owner Hal Steinbrenner hinted in May that the team might need to scale back its payroll in the future.
“I must be candid; our current payroll levels are not financially sustainable,” Steinbrenner stated, as reported by Dan Martin of the New York Post. “It would be unfeasible for most ownership groups, especially considering the luxury tax we face.”
He also expressed skepticism about the necessity of a $300 million payroll to achieve championship success.
“I have consistently maintained that a $300 million payroll is not essential for winning a championship,” he asserted. “We need a balanced mix of seasoned veterans, who naturally demand higher salaries, while also recognizing the substantial investments we’ve made in our player development system over the last 5-10 years, which is now among the best in baseball.”
If Steinbrenner’s perspective holds, securing a player like Scott may prove challenging. However, the Yankees have demonstrated a capacity to finalize deals, and if they are determined to acquire him, they will likely find a way.
