In a big blow to the New York Yankees, closer Luke Weaver looks set to hit the injured list (IL) after hurting his hamstring. This happened during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, and he’ll probably miss four to six weeks.
The timing couldn’t be worse for the Yankees, who’ve leaned heavily on Weaver’s dominant outings this season. With Weaver down, the bullpen’s going to need some quick shuffling—Devin Williams is likely sliding back into the closer spot.
Fernando Cruz is also expected to return from the IL soon, which should help the Yankees’ pitching staff breathe a little easier. They need all the arms they can get right now.
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Luke Weaver’s Injury: A Major Setback
Weaver’s injury is a major setback for New York. He started the season on fire, putting up a 1.05 ERA with eight saves and 24 strikeouts in just over 25 innings.
He’d really locked down the closer role, bringing stability to a bullpen that needed it. But after tweaking his hamstring against the Dodgers, Weaver is out, and suddenly there’s a real gap in the Yankees’ pitching plan.
Impact on the Yankees’ Bullpen
With Weaver sidelined, the Yankees have to rethink their bullpen approach. Devin Williams, who lost the closer job to Weaver back in April, is expected to get another shot at it.
Williams has bounced back lately, not allowing a run in 13 of his past 15 outings. He even looked sharp in the eighth inning against the Dodgers, which is a good sign for what’s ahead.
Devin Williams: The New Closer
Devin Williams is known for his swing-and-miss stuff, and lately, he’s looked like his old self. His whiff rate sits at 34.8 percent, which puts him in the 95th percentile—pretty impressive.
Manager Aaron Boone has praised Williams, saying his command and rhythm have really come around. Williams has pitched with more of an edge lately, and you can feel the confidence building.
Williams’ Performance This Season
Williams had a rocky start to the year, but he’s turned it around. He hasn’t allowed a run in 13 of his last 15 games, which shows he’s got some resilience.
His recent performance against the Dodgers, where he struck out Hyesong Kim and Teoscar Hernández, proved he can handle the pressure. With his command improving, Williams seems ready to take over as the Yankees’ closer again.
Fernando Cruz’s Return: A Boost for the Bullpen
The Yankees are waiting on Fernando Cruz to come off the IL, and that could happen as soon as Tuesday. Cruz has been out with shoulder inflammation, but his return should give the bullpen a boost.
Adding Cruz will give the Yankees another late-inning option, which is something they badly need right now. He’s a steady arm, and that kind of reliability is hard to come by.
Cruz’s Potential Impact
Fernando Cruz has proven himself as a reliable pitcher for the Yankees. With Weaver out and Williams stepping up, Cruz’s ability to handle late innings will be even more important.
He gives Boone more ways to mix and match, depending on who’s coming up in the lineup. That flexibility can make a real difference.
Mark Leiter Jr.: Another Key Contributor
Mark Leiter Jr. has quietly become an important piece of the Yankees’ bullpen. His recent outings have been strong, and his ability to throw effectively gives Boone more options.
Leiter’s role will grow with Weaver sidelined. He’ll be counted on to support Williams and Cruz, keeping things steady in the late innings.
Leiter’s Recent Performance
Leiter has looked consistent and reliable lately. He’s handled different situations well, which is exactly what the Yankees need right now.
As the team deals with Weaver’s absence, Leiter’s contributions could end up being a difference-maker for the bullpen.
Conclusion: Navigating the Challenges Ahead
The injury to Luke Weaver is a big blow to the Yankees. Still, the team has enough depth and talent to get through this rough patch.
Devin Williams looks sharp again. Fernando Cruz is back, and Mark Leiter Jr. has held his own.
With some smart moves and a little luck, the Yankees could keep competing at a high level. It’s not going to be easy, but hey, when is it ever?
For more details on the injury and what it means for the team, check out the full article on the New York Post.
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