Yankees’ last active link to 2009 champions helping drive 2024 title dream

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After a 15-year wait, the Yankees are back in the World Series, with bullpen coach Mike Harkey as the only uniformed link to their last appearance. Despite changes in leadership with new managers, pitching coaches, and countless relievers, Harkey has remained a fixture, stepping away only briefly for a two-year role as the Diamondbacks’ pitching coach.

Harkey’s impact on the Yankees goes beyond coaching mechanics. He’s known for his mentorship, humor, support, and deep baseball insight. Standing at 6-foot-5, Harkey’s imposing frame is matched by a unique personality. Manager Aaron Boone, a close friend, describes him as “cheerfully cantankerous,” a trait that lightens the clubhouse atmosphere.

Under Harkey’s guidance, the Yankees’ bullpen has excelled at a critical point in the playoffs. Reliever Luke Weaver credited Harkey’s influence for helping him adjust to a bullpen role this season.

“It’s the noise that comes along with being a New York Yankee,” the Yankees bullpen coach explained. “We were never as bad as everyone thought we were. We always knew we weren’t. We just knew we needed a chance to be able to show we can get the big outs when we need to get the big outs. We’re getting an opportunity to do that now and hopefully we can continue to do it for another couple weeks.”

Harkey’s long tenure with the Yankees began in 2008 when former roommate and Cubs teammate Joe Girardi brought him on board. At 57, he’s become a key figure in maintaining the Yankees’ bullpen standards. Through a season of ups and downs, Harkey’s stability has kept the bullpen on course for the playoffs.

Reflecting on his role, Harkey expressed gratitude for the chance to build strong player connections and bring his experience to bear on the team’s success.

Mike Harkey’s long-standing history with the Yankees includes being part of their 2009 World Series-winning team. Ahead of last week’s ALCS victory over the Guardians, Harkey reflected on the familiar intensity of playoff pressure, noting the team’s grit in high-stakes elimination games and the steady presence of key teammates.

Back in 2009, the Yankees bullpen was anchored by Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera, alongside David Robertson, Phil Hughes, and the postseason contributions of Joba Chamberlain and left-hander Damaso Marte.

Today’s bullpen operates with a different but equally reliable mix. Harkey now mentors a versatile group that includes Luke Weaver, who has shifted from long relief to closing, while former closer Clay Holmes has taken on a setup role. The experienced Tommy Kahnle and resurgent lefty Tim Hill round out the relief corps.

Weaver credits Harkey’s calming influence in the bullpen, emphasizing his talent for keeping pitchers focused without adding pressure. Known for his straightforward guidance and clear scouting reports, Harkey is a consistent presence who offers insights on performances, whether the outcome is positive or challenging, making him a trusted figure in the clubhouse.

“He’s one of one,” the Yankees closer said as the team was getting ready for the World Series Game 1. “He, to me, has been one of the most impactful people for this year in my own personal journey, having transitioned to the bullpen.” 

In his coaching role, Mike Harkey often brings up Mariano Rivera as an example for his relievers, highlighting not only Rivera’s talent but also his daily commitment to both mental and physical preparation.

Manager Aaron Boone values Harkey as a reliable mentor and confidant, praising his extensive experience as both player and coach. Boone considers the team fortunate to have someone with Harkey’s knowledge and support through the years.

When Matt Blake took over as pitching coach in 2019 after Larry Rothschild’s departure, he prioritized keeping Harkey on board. Blake sees Harkey’s background—from his playing days to the Yankees’ World Series win—as a crucial asset that fosters trust and stability among the bullpen pitchers.

“I think it’s helpful any time you have someone with that kind of experience who played, he’s been here, he’s been through the ringer, obviously he’s been part of a [World Series] winning team here,” the Yankees pitching coach said. “So the trust in his sense of stability out there is big for the guys.” 

Harkey’s baseball journey began as a promising prospect, chosen fourth overall in the 1987 draft, just after Ken Griffey Jr. Despite an injury-shortened eight-year career, he developed a unique coaching style, fostering a relaxed bullpen atmosphere until game time demanded focus. This approach has proven effective, even through this season’s challenges.

Reflecting on the team’s journey, Harkey acknowledges the pressures of pitching for the Yankees but remains confident in the bullpen’s ability. He’s optimistic as the team moves through the postseason, trusting in their potential to secure critical outs when it matters most.

“I take a lot of pride in what I do,” he said. “I take a lot of pride in the relationships I’m able to build with some of these guys. Hopefully I’m able to make the kind of impact that needs to be made in order to win games. It’s just really a lot of my experience. I’m lucky to get the experience.” 

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