In a significant development in the world of Major League Baseball, the New York Yankees are reportedly eyeing left-handed relief pitcher Brooks Raley for a potential trade with the Chicago Cubs. This news comes from renowned baseball insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, who suggests that the Yankees are actively seeking to bolster their bullpen ahead of the upcoming season.
Brooks Raley, entering his age 37 season, is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery that he underwent last May. While he is not expected to return to the mound until July, Raley has demonstrated remarkable talent when healthy. In the limited appearances he made last season, spanning just eight games, he did not allow a single run and posted a striking 36% strikeout rate. His performance in the previous season with the New York Mets was equally impressive, where he recorded a 2.80 ERA over 66 appearances, along with a 25.8% strikeout rate and a commendable 0.66 home runs per nine innings.
The Yankees’ interest in Raley reflects their ongoing need for left-handed pitching depth in the bullpen. As the team looks to strengthen its roster, there has been speculation about whether they might pursue multiple left-handed options, including Tim Hill, who has also drawn their attention. The Yankees’ front office seems intent on exploring various avenues in the relief market, casting a wide net for potential acquisitions.
While some fans advocate for re-signing Tim Hill, the Yankees are weighing their options carefully. The uncertainty surrounding Hill’s contract demands and the timing of his signing leaves the team with few guarantees. Adding Raley could provide the Yankees with a strong left-handed presence, particularly given his ability to generate swings and misses, a skill that sets him apart from other relief options.
The depth of the Yankees’ bullpen has been a topic of concern, especially given the absence of left-handed pitchers on the 40-man roster. With their best prospects leaning towards right-handed talent, the Yankees may be forced to look externally for reliable left-handed options. Raley’s track record, especially his impressive lateral movement and pitching arsenal, makes him a desirable candidate to address this need.
In addition to Raley, the Yankees are also navigating the complexities of trading Marcus Stroman, who has struggled in recent seasons. The team is reportedly looking to offload Stroman’s $18.3 million salary for the 2025 season, but complications arise from his performance and contractual obligations. The Yankees face challenges in finding a team willing to absorb a significant portion of Stroman’s salary, given his inconsistent track record.
Rosenthal suggests that trading Stroman could open avenues for the Yankees to address their infield needs by taking on a bigger contract from another team. This strategy would allow them to potentially acquire players who could fill critical gaps in their roster while also alleviating some financial pressure.
As the Yankees continue to strategize for the upcoming season, the potential acquisition of Brooks Raley could signal a proactive approach to strengthening their bullpen. The front office’s willingness to explore various trade options demonstrates a commitment to building a competitive team that can contend in a challenging league landscape. As the offseason progresses, fans will be keenly watching to see how these developments unfold and what impact they will have on the team’s overall performance in the 2024 season.
