With the final phase of spring training underway, the New York Yankees are confronting unexpected complications in their bullpen setup. What was initially projected to be a position of strength has morphed into a concern, with health issues creating openings that weren’t anticipated. As Opening Day approaches, at least two relief spots remain contested.
Leiter Jr.’s back problems add to uncertainty
Mark Leiter Jr., anticipated to be a key component in the Yankees’ late-inning strategy, has encountered a setback that’s raising eyebrows in the organization. The veteran right-hander hasn’t appeared in Grapefruit League action since March 6, sidelined by discomfort in his back. Originally scheduled to pitch against Detroit on Thursday, Leiter experienced symptoms that prompted the training staff to hold him out as a preventative measure. His next evaluation comes Sunday when he’s slated to throw a live batting practice session.
Manager Aaron Boone has attempted to minimize concerns surrounding Leiter’s condition, explaining that the pitcher chose to exercise caution rather than risk exacerbating the issue. Nevertheless, with Opening Day less than two weeks away, even minor health issues could significantly impact roster configurations.
Bullpen takes another hit
Leiter’s situation compounds an already troubling trend of pitching injuries that have strained the Yankees’ bullpen resources. Scott Effross (hamstring strain), Jake Cousins (forearm strain), and Tyler Matzek (oblique strain) are all currently unavailable. Additionally, Jonathan Loáisiga, recovering from elbow surgery, isn’t expected to rejoin the team until late May or possibly early June.
These multiple absences have created a scenario where the Yankees face difficult decisions regarding their opening-day bullpen composition.
Who could step up?
With at least two bullpen roles now likely available, several pitchers have emerged as candidates to fill these vacancies:
- Yoendrys Gómez: Having exhausted his minor league options, this right-hander has shown promising development with increased velocity and effective adaptation to relief responsibilities this spring. The Yankees may prioritize retaining him rather than exposing him to waivers.
- Yerry De Los Santos: Already occupying a spot on the 40-man roster, this 26-year-old right-hander has demonstrated potential and could provide valuable middle-relief support.
- Geoff Hartlieb: Despite his non-roster invitee status, Hartlieb has impressed coaches throughout camp. Though he struggled in Saturday’s outing (allowing two hits and three walks while recording just two outs), Boone continues to praise his command abilities and overall pitchability.
- Colten Brewer: Another non-roster invitee with major league experience, Brewer remains in consideration for a bullpen position.
Boone’s assessment of the situation
Boone has acknowledged the ongoing competition for bullpen roles, emphasizing that the remaining 10 days of camp will prove decisive in determining who secures the final roster spots.
“We’re not there yet,” Boone stated. “There’s still important days here in camp that we’ll continue to evaluate and keep assessing where we are and ultimately, what we think is the best decision for the team.”
This candid acknowledgment suggests the Yankees might consider late spring adjustments, potentially even exploring external options if injury concerns persist.
Current Yankees bullpen locks
Despite these challenges, the Yankees’ relief corps maintains a formidable foundation. Six relievers are widely expected to secure Opening Day roster spots:
- Devin Williams (Closer)
- Luke Weaver
- Tim Hill
- Fernando Cruz
- Ian Hamilton (if healthy by Opening Day)
- Mark Leiter Jr. (assuming back issues resolve)
Yankees injury status and recovery timelines
- Mark Leiter Jr. (Back discomfort) – Live batting practice scheduled for March 16.
- Ian Hamilton (Infection) – Recovery progressing well, potential Opening Day availability.
- Jake Cousins (Forearm strain) – Has resumed the throwing program but remains weeks from game readiness. Expected return – April.
- Tyler Matzek (Oblique strain) is currently asymptomatic but still building strength. Expected return in April.
- Clayton Beeter (Shoulder discomfort) – Working through side sessions, awaiting clearance for game participation, expected return in March.
- JT Brubaker (Fractured ribs) – No specific recovery timeline established.
- Scott Effross (Hamstring strain) – Received PRP injection in February, extended recovery anticipated.
- Chase Hampton (Tommy John surgery) – Ruled out for the entire 2025 season, targeting a 2026 return.
Moving forward
As the regular season approaches, the Yankees face critical decisions regarding bullpen construction. Leiter Jr.’s condition in the coming days will significantly impact planning, as his potential absence would create yet another void in an already depleted relief corps.
With multiple pitchers competing for the remaining positions, performance in the final week of spring training takes on heightened importance. Whether through internal promotions or external acquisitions, the Yankees must ensure their bullpen remains a strength rather than a liability heading into the 2025 campaign.
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