Former AL wins leader enters Yankees conversation as pitching option
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Follow UsNEW YORK — The Yankees enter the offseason with serious concerns in their starting rotation. Both Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon are expected to miss the early part of the 2026 season while they recover from injuries.
That issue leaves general manager Brian Cashman searching across the market for dependable pitching. While the Yankees remain connected to larger trade targets such as Tarik Skubal, they may also consider a quieter move. Chris Bassitt, the former American League wins leader, has surfaced as a realistic option for a Yankees team that needs reliable innings.
Track record speaks volumes
Bassitt completed a three year, $63 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays. The 36 year old right hander delivered steady production across the contract. He made more than 30 starts in each of the three seasons. His ERA remained between 3.60 and 4.16 every year.
In 2025, Bassitt worked 170 and one third innings with a 3.96 ERA. He struck out 22.6 percent of hitters he faced. His walk rate finished at 7.1 percent. That durability matters most for a Yankees rotation in need of stability.
MLB Trade Rumors described his consistency.
“Bassitt just wrapped up a three-year, $63MM deal with the Blue Jays,” the report said. “He remained the steady mid-rotation presence that the Jays expected when they signed him.”
Bassitt led the American League with 16 wins in 2023. He tied Tampa Bay pitcher Zach Eflin in victories that year. He also tied for the league lead in starts with 33 outings. Bassitt finished second in innings pitched behind Gerrit Cole, which reflects the type of workload the Yankees seek.
Postseason brilliance changes perception
Bassitt improved his value with a strong postseason. Toronto used him exclusively as a reliever during its run to the World Series. The veteran adapted to the new role with complete success.
He made seven appearances between the ALCS and the World Series. He recorded a 1.04 ERA in those games. He struck out 10 batters in eight and two thirds innings. He allowed only three hits and one walk. That level of poise drew the attention of multiple front offices, including the Yankees.
Bassitt expressed his feelings after Toronto fell to the Dodgers in seven games.
“I hope I have another chance with this group,” he said. “I love this group. I love these guys.”
Toronto cannot extend a qualifying offer because Bassitt already received one when he entered free agency with the Mets. That rule makes him attractive to the Yankees since they would not lose draft compensation if they sign him.
New York experience helps
Bassitt’s background in New York adds to his appeal. He pitched for the Mets in 2022 and produced a 3.42 ERA over 181 and two thirds innings. He handled the expectations and pressure that come with the New York market. That familiarity makes him a safer addition for the Yankees than a pitcher with no experience in a major spotlight.
Bassitt no longer relies on high velocity. His fastball now averages around 91 to 92 miles per hour. He makes up for the lower speed with intelligence and pitch variety. He uses eight different pitches to attack hitters. That deep mix allows him to work through lineups multiple times without overpowering them. The Yankees value pitchers who can succeed with sequencing and movement as they age.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider praised him.
“He doesn’t try to overdo it,” Schneider said. “He has the ability to throw eight pitches. He is awesome in the clubhouse. He is a leader.”
Contract predictions vary
MLB Trade Rumors projects Bassitt will receive a two year, 38 million dollar contract. Analyst Steve Adams believes the Yankees are a strong candidate to sign him. Jon Heyman of the New York Post expects a similar two year deal worth around 40 million dollars due to Bassitt’s postseason showing.
MLB Trade Rumors wrote about Bassitt’s market.
“Bassitt turns 37 in February, so he isn’t going to secure another three-year contract,” the projection said. “He should be able to secure a two-year deal at a decent annual rate.”
The Yankees need arms who can provide steady innings without creating major payroll strain. Bassitt fits that profile. His expected contract slides comfortably below the luxury tax pressure points. His presence would also balance a rotation that features young pitchers such as Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil and Will Warren along with Max Fried.
Durability remains key asset enticing Yankees
Bassitt started at least 30 games in each of the past four full seasons. He also threw at least 170 innings during that span. His ERA over that period sits at 3.77. Very few pitchers can match that level of reliability, and the Yankees recognize the value of that consistency.
He missed a brief period late in 2025 due to back inflammation. Aside from that issue, he avoided the injured list throughout his time in Toronto. The Yankees need pitchers who can take the ball every fifth day while Cole and Rodon complete their recoveries.
The free agent market offers few pitchers with Bassitt’s track record. Teams across baseball need innings, which means his market could rise quickly. The Yankees will likely face competition.
Versatility adds value
Toronto’s decision to use Bassitt in relief during October revealed his ability to adjust to any role. He embraced the change and excelled. That flexibility would help the Yankees as they manage a rotation filled with uncertainty.
If Cole or Rodon return sooner than expected, Bassitt could move to a long relief role. If injuries happen again, he can return to the rotation. He has worked in both roles without issue. That versatility adds value for a Yankees team preparing for a long season.
Bassitt uses movement and deception rather than overpowering pitches. His sinker averaged 91.9 mph in 2023. He threw it nearly 40 percent of the time. His slow curveball and mid 80s changeup keep hitters off balance. His pitch mix should remain effective as he ages.
Decision time approaches
The Yankees must decide how aggressive they want to be this offseason. Acquiring Skubal or another ace requires surrendering top prospects. Trading for mid rotation help such as Ketel Marte would also cost significant pieces from the farm system.
Bassitt offers a different path. He would not require the Yankees to trade prospects. His contract would not restrict future payroll decisions. His track record provides stability for a rotation that needs immediate help.
Jack Markowski of SI summarized the appeal.
“While signing Bassitt wouldn’t constitute as a flashy move, he’s a dependable veteran who can eat innings while raising the floor, and perhaps the ceiling, of the Yankees’ rotation,” he wrote.
The Yankees often lean toward big moves. But this offseason demands balance. Cole and Rodon will miss early time. The Yankees need pitchers who can cover innings right away. Bassitt matches every requirement. He may not bring star power, but he brings reliability.
Free agency opens soon. Multiple contenders such as Atlanta, Baltimore, Houston and Arizona are expected to pursue starting pitching. The Yankees will need to act quickly if they want Bassitt.
At some point, Cashman must decide whether Bassitt’s steadiness is worth the investment. For a Yankees rotation in crisis, the answer may be yes.
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