Yankees lock in Luke Weaver for 2025 by picking up team option

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The Yankees have exercised Luke Weaver’s contract option for 2025, securing the right-hander for $2.5 million—a strategic move following his standout 2024 season.

Weaver’s role evolved significantly last year, progressing from a dependable bullpen piece to the team’s closer ahead of the postseason, stepping in when Clay Holmes faced difficulties. His postseason impact was substantial, appearing in 12 games during New York’s World Series run.

Throughout the regular season, Weaver showcased consistent control and effectiveness, achieving a 2.89 ERA over 62 games. He struck out 103 batters and issued only 26 walks across 84 innings, maintaining a perfect record in four save opportunities.

Despite one setback—a blown save in Game 3 of the ALCS against Cleveland—Weaver excelled under pressure, frequently entering with runners on base and maintaining composure. His postseason stats underscored his reliability, posting a 1.76 ERA with 16 strikeouts and two walks over 15.1 innings.

Weaver emerges a surprise for Yankees

Weaver’s path to success began with a modest waiver claim by the Yankees in September 2023. After a brief stint as a free agent, he returned on a $2 million deal, setting the stage for his breakthrough 2024 performance.

The $2.5 million option represents significant value, ranking Weaver 12th in salary among MLB closers. Following his contributions to New York’s first American League title in 15 years, he is set to start 2025 as the team’s primary closer.

The Yankees’ decision to exercise Luke Weaver’s contract option follows a stellar 2024 campaign that marked the peak of his nine-year professional career. At 31, he transitioned from a dependable setup reliever to the team’s closer in September, taking over for Clay Holmes. In his closing stretch of the regular season, Weaver displayed exceptional form, allowing just one unearned run and four hits while striking out 24 over his final 11 innings.

Weaver’s postseason performance solidified his value as a key asset in the Yankees’ bullpen. He recorded four saves and one win, maintaining a 1.76 ERA over 15 1/3 innings, playing an integral role in their World Series pursuit.

Weaver’s path to this standout season began unexpectedly. After eight years as a starting pitcher with various teams—including the Cardinals, Diamondbacks, Royals, Reds, and Mariners—he was picked up by the Yankees on a waiver claim in September 2023. The team later secured him on a $2 million contract with a team option for 2025, a move that paid significant dividends throughout the season.

His continued presence provides essential stability to the Yankees’ bullpen, which is bracing for change with the departures of key relievers such as Holmes, Kahnle, Loáisiga, and Hill, all now free agents.

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