Yankees get new free agent set-up option to step in for Luke Weaver

NEW YORK — The Yankees bullpen that carried them through October 2025 looks completely different heading into 2026. Brian Cashman knows he faces a challenge to rebuild it.

“The cupboard isn’t bare; David Bednar, Fernando Cruz, Camilo Doval and Tim Hill are still around, but Devin Williams, Luke Weaver and others must be replaced,” wrote Brian Murphy of MLB.com. “The good news for the Yankees is that even if they don’t re-sign Williams and/or Weaver, this year’s class of free-agent relievers is flush with high-quality late-inning arms.”

Luke Weaver‘s Yankees future is uncertain after he hit free agency following the bumpy 2025 season. He struggled badly in the postseason after a hamstring injury derailed his second half. Weaver recorded just one out in three playoff appearances while allowing five earned runs. Manager Aaron Boone lost confidence in his former closer. The Yankees doesn’t look eager to get him back.

Devin Williams, who once seen as his replacement, might not return. He posted a 4.79 ERA in his lone season with the Yankees. Williams lost the closer job twice. The front office has discussed a reunion, but the Dodgers, Reds, Red Sox, and Mets are all pursuing him.

The New York Yankees fans hoping for a bullpen rebuild might want to keep watching the free agent market. One name, Seranthony Dominguez, in particular could solve the Yankees’ setup man problem before spring training arrives.

Why the free agent makes sense for the Yankees

Dominguez fits exactly what the Yankees need. The hard-throwing right-hander is a free agent after helping the Blue Jays reach the World Series. His combination of elite velocity and postseason experience makes him an intriguing target for any contender.

turned 31 last week. He brings seven years of major league experience to any team that signs him. The Dominican right-hander has pitched for the Phillies, Orioles, and Blue Jays since his 2018 debut.

His 2025 numbers show a reliable setup option. Dominguez made 43 appearances for Baltimore before the trade deadline, posting a 3.24 ERA with 54 strikeouts. Toronto acquired him in July for pitching prospect Juaron Watts-Brown. He then logged a 3.00 ERA in 24 games for the Blue Jays down the stretch.

The Yankees would get a pitcher who threw 3.1 scoreless innings in the postseason. Dominguez earned the win in Game 4 of the ALDS against the Yankees themselves. He allowed just one walk while retiring five straight batters in a bullpen game for Toronto.

His stuff plays at the highest level. Dominguez features a fastball that averages 97.8 mph and touches triple digits. His slider generates whiffs at above 50 percent since his rookie season. Orioles interim manager Tony Mansolino called him “an incredible dude” and a leader in the clubhouse.

How Dominguez and Weaver compare

The numbers tell an interesting story. Here is how both relievers stacked up in 2025 and across their careers.

Dominguez holds the edge in velocity, career ERA, and strikeout rate. His postseason performance stands out dramatically. Weaver’s October collapse remains fresh in Yankees fans’ minds. The 135.00 ERA in three playoff outings sealed his fate in the Bronx. Despite similar projected contracts, Dominguez offers better value given his elite stuff and proven ability to perform under pressure.

The Yankees need relievers who can handle October pressure. Dominguez has been there before. He has a 4-0 record registering 1.86 ERA, 37 strikeouts and 1 save in 29 postseason games.

Tommy John surgery in 2020 slowed his trajectory. But Dominguez has rebuilt himself into a dependable late-inning arm. He would slot perfectly into the eighth inning ahead of David Bednar if the Yankees close the deal.

The Yankees already made a minor move

Cashman signed Yerry Rodriguez to a two-year minor league contract last week. The 28-year-old right-hander is recovering from Tommy John surgery and won’t pitch until midseason 2026 at the earliest.

Rodriguez struggled badly in limited major league action. He posted an 8.17 ERA over 36.2 career innings. But his fastball sits in the upper 90s. The Yankees view him as a reclamation project who could contribute down the line.

That signing represents the low-cost approach the Yankees have typically taken with their bullpen. Dominguez would cost significantly more on a major league deal. He made $8 million with Baltimore and Toronto in 2025.

Can the Yankees afford to be aggressive?

The Yankees project for a $253.9 million payroll before making any moves. That number already exceeds the first luxury tax threshold of $244 million. Hal Steinbrenner has given mixed signals about whether he wants to add or subtract from that figure.

Dominguez won’t break the bank. He is 31 and coming off solid but unspectacular seasons. A two-year deal in the $12-16 million range seems reasonable based on current market projections.

The Yankees have David Bednar locked in as closer after acquiring him at the trade deadline. Adding Dominguez would give them a proven bridge to the ninth. It would also provide insurance if Bednar struggles or lands on the injured list.

The winter meetings begin December 8 in Orlando. The Yankees must decide soon whether they want to be aggressive in the reliever market. Dominguez won’t stay available forever. Neither will the other quality arms Cashman is reportedly eyeing.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.