The New York Yankees made a pair of intriguing moves on Thursday, claiming right-handers Roansy Contreras and Allan Winans off waivers. The acquisitions aim to bolster the team’s pitching depth as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Yankees add Roansy Contreras and Allan Winans to bolster pitching depth
Contreras, 25, brings versatility and experience to the Yankees’ staff. The Dominican-born pitcher split the 2024 season between the Pittsburgh Pirates and Los Angeles Angels, posting a 4.35 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP across 49 games, including three starts. Over 68.1 innings, he recorded two saves in four opportunities and finished 14 games for the Angels.
Initially a starter during his three-and-a-half seasons in Pittsburgh, Contreras went 9-12 in 53 games (30 starts) with a 4.83 ERA and a 1.42 WHIP. Despite command issues—80 walks in 182.2 innings—he managed 161 strikeouts, showing his ability to generate swings and misses. Contreras has been on the move recently, with stints in the Rangers, Reds, and Orioles organizations before the Yankees claimed him following his latest designation for assignment.
Winans, 29, is a less proven commodity but offers potential as a depth option. Drafted by the Mets in the 17th round of the 2018 MLB Draft, he debuted with the Braves in 2023. That year, he made six starts, going 1-2 with a 5.29 ERA and 34 strikeouts over 32.1 innings. However, his limited 2024 MLB action resulted in a rough 15.26 ERA across two starts.
While Winans struggled at the major league level, his minor league track record suggests promise. Over three seasons with the Gwinnett Stripers, the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, he compiled a 16-10 record with a 3.23 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP, primarily working as a starter. The Yankees may view him as a depth piece capable of contributing in spot starts or long relief.
New York’s rotation appears solidified at the top, with Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, and Luis Gil slated for starting roles. Clarke Schmidt and Marcus Stroman are also in contention for spots, though the Yankees have reportedly been exploring trade options involving Stroman this offseason. The additions of Contreras and Winans provide flexibility, whether as bullpen options or potential spot starters.
With these moves, the Yankees continue to build a staff that combines elite front-end talent with depth pieces to navigate the challenges of a long season. While Contreras and Winans may not be headliners, they represent calculated bets to strengthen the team’s pitching corps.
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