Yankees Rumored to be Interested in Reuniting With Padres Star Closer Kirby Yates
By Jerry Trotta
Could the Yankees really be in the market for another star reliever?
Despite already having an elite bullpen that features the likes of Aroldis Chapman, Zach Britton, Adam Ottavino, and Tommy Kahnle -- not to the mention the eventual return of Dellin Betances -- the Yankees are rumored to be looking for additional reinforcements.
The latest rumor suggest that New York have inquired about reuniting with Padres star closer, Kirby Yates.
#Yankees have interest in bringing back Kirby #Yates. They have already checked in on the RP currently with the @Padres. 1.20ERA this year and earning next to nada.
— The Official Simonetti Source (@SimonettiSource) June 17, 2019
The 32-year old vet is leading the big leagues in saves with 24 and has a 1.20 ERA to his name thus far in 2019.
His emergence as one of the dominant closers in all of baseball will come as a shock to many of the Pinstripe faithful, who will remember his underwhelming stint in the Bronx in 2016. In just over 41 innings, Yates posted a dreadful 5.23 ERA before heading to San Diego as a 2017 waiver claim.
But it won't be easy for Cashman and Co. to pry Yates from the Padres' clutches, as the right-hander is reportedly keen on remaining in Southern California.
The San Diego #Padres may be willing to trade virtually any of their position players, but their Hawaiian surfer/turned closer should stay put. Future All-star Kirby Yates wants to stay in SD where he has become one of the game's game's premier closers. https://t.co/CGkXXbDTaN
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) June 14, 2019
We all know that Cashman is eager to make a splash this summer but this rumor is especially puzzling when you consider how desperate the Yanks are to acquire a starting pitcher before the July 31 trade deadline.
Still, adding another stud to a bullpen never hurts.