Stanton grabs headlines but Yankees’ bullpen proves true ALCS difference-maker

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The Yankees’ path to the World Series was paved by a blend of timely hitting and standout relief pitching in their Game 5 ALCS win over Cleveland. The 5-2 victory, fueled by key home runs from Juan Soto and Giancarlo Stanton, sealed the team’s spot in the Fall Classic.

But the credit doesn’t rest solely with the hitters. The Yankees’ bullpen, along with the strategic decisions from manager Aaron Boone and the pitching development team, played a pivotal role in securing the win. After starter Carlos Rodón exited after 4 2/3 innings, the bullpen delivered 13 critical outs, showcasing a group of relievers whose roles—and even teams—had been vastly different earlier in the season.

Mark Leiter Jr. continued his postseason turnaround, following up on a strong Game 4 performance. Acquired at the trade deadline, Leiter initially struggled but has since become a key asset in the Yankees’ October run.

Tim Hill and Jake Cousins, both former White Sox pitchers, contributed in middle relief. Hill, picked up after being released, and Cousins, acquired via trade, each found career-best form under the Yankees’ guidance, underscoring the team’s ability to rejuvenate talent.

Hill, known for his deceptive side-arm delivery, played a pivotal role in maintaining a 2-2 tie. Entering in the sixth inning with a runner on base, Hill allowed a single to Bo Naylor but promptly induced a 4-4-3 double play from Andres Gimenez to end the threat. He followed up with another double-play ball later in the game, solidifying his performance as a game-changer.

Pitching for the third straight day and appearing in all five games of the series, Hill’s workload was heavy, especially with top relievers Clay Holmes and Tommy Kahnle likely unavailable. His contributions, along with Cousins’, proved invaluable in helping the Yankees claim their first World Series appearance since 2009.

Manager Aaron Boone showed trust in Tim Hill by keeping him on the mound to start the seventh inning of Game 5, even after Hill issued a leadoff walk to Brayan Rocchio. Hill quickly rewarded that faith by retiring Steven Kwan, who had just set a Cleveland franchise record by reaching base in 16 consecutive postseason games.

Financially, the Yankees have little burden when it comes to Hill’s contract. Reports indicate they are only responsible for a prorated portion of his minimum salary, as the White Sox agreed to pay the remainder of his $1.88 million salary after releasing him.

Jake Cousins, used less frequently than Hill during the playoffs, also delivered in this crucial game. He struck out four of the five batters he faced, finishing the seventh inning and navigating a two-out walk in the eighth. Cousins’ intensity was on full display as he left the mound, pumping his fists and letting out a loud yell.

Weaver’s Yankees magic cements bullpen spectacle

Luke Weaver, who closed out the game with two perfect innings, has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations. Originally re-signed in the offseason as a long reliever and viewed as possible rotation depth following Gerrit Cole’s injury, Weaver, a former starter, has evolved into a reliable bullpen anchor.

The bullpen’s collective effort demonstrates the Yankees’ knack for optimizing talent, turning once-overlooked pitchers into crucial postseason contributors.

His resurgence with the Yankees has been nothing short of remarkable, as his shift to the closer role has delivered consistently dominant performances. The bullpen’s evolution throughout the postseason has exceeded all expectations, particularly with the unlikely quartet of Weaver, Mark Leiter Jr., Tim Hill, and Jake Cousins playing key roles in securing the American League pennant.

Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged the improbable success of this group, praising their focus and execution under pressure. Their efforts are backed by strong numbers: Yankees relievers have posted a 5-1 record and a 2.56 ERA during the postseason.

“If I would have told you a month ago or two months ago that we were going to close out the American League with Mark Leiter Jr., Tim Hill, Jake Cousins and Luke Weaver, I don’t know if many people would have thought that,” a happy and confident Yankees manager told reporters after the pennant win. “It’s a credit to each and every one of those guys. Just their ability to do their job, their ability to focus, their ability to lock in. Proud of that group.”

However, the true test awaits in the World Series. While managing leads against the Royals and Guardians created plenty of tense moments in the ALDS and ALCS, the Dodgers present a far more formidable challenge. 

The difference in offensive firepower is clear. Los Angeles brings an imposing lineup featuring stars like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, and Mookie Betts—posing a significant test for the Yankees‘ relievers.

To succeed in the World Series, it will take a collective effort from the entire roster. While strong starting pitching and timely hitting remain essential, the bullpen will likely find itself in high-pressure situations given the strength of the Dodgers’ offense. 

The Yankees’ ability to sustain their bullpen’s exceptional postseason performance against one of the most dangerous lineups in baseball could be the deciding factor in the championship.

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