Devin Williams was signed by the New York Yankees to be their closer, but according to one observer, the organisation shouldn’t stop strengthening their bullpen.
The Yankees still need to fill a few positions, including one for a left-handed reliever, according to MLB analyst Rucker Haringey of FanSided. The Yankees should sign Andrew Chafin in free agency, according to Haringey.
In high-leverage situations, Haringey said, “The team still needs a lefty with swing-and-miss stuff to match up with quality left-handed hitters.” For Boone and his coaching staff, Tanner Scott would have been the perfect addition, but the Dodgers’ bid was much higher than what New York was prepared to spend. The team should therefore turn to Andrew Chafin, who finished second in their sweepstakes for left-handed relievers.
“The former Rangers star appeared in 62 games last season and struck out 70 batters in just 56.1 innings. He may have lost a tick or two on his fastball in recent years but he’s still exceedingly tough on quality left-handed hitters,” Haringey added. “There’s a chance Chafin can be landed on a one or two-year deal with a moderate salary based on his age. Every day that passes should see his asking price decline. The Yankees can’t wait too long to bounce on the potential bargain southpaw.”
With Chafin still on the open market, he likely won’t get a major deal as Harigney writes.
The left-handed reliever spent last season with the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers. He pitched in 62 games going 4-3 with a 3.51 ERA. He’s appeared in 601 career games and has been a full-time reliever outside of three starts in 2014.
Yankees Have Shown Interest in Chafin
New York has been looking to further solidify its bullpen and Chafin has been one name mentioned as a possibility.
USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale reported back on January 7 that the Yankees have shown interest in Chafin and even spoke to him about a potential deal.
“The Yankees are currently looking for a left-handed reliever and an infielder after they swiftly acted after Juan Soto rejected their $760 million offer by signing Fried to an eight-year, $218 million contract, trading for closer Devin Williams and outfielder Cody Bellinger, and signing first baseman Paul Goldschmidt,” Nightengale wrote.
“They are working hard to get Marcus Stroman, a starter, to pay his $18 million contract. Infielder Brendan Rodgers and free-agent left-handed reliever Andrew Chafin have been discussed by them,” Nightengale continued. The AL has weakened this winter, which is the Yankees’ best news. The National League teams spend over $900 million more than the AL.
Chafin would help replace the void of Tim Hill in the Yankees’ bullpen who’s still a free agent.
Williams Eager to be New York’s Closer
New York will have a new closer in 2025 as Williams will look to lock down games for the Yankees.
Williams was acquired by the Milwaukee Brewers and he’s excited to be the Yankees closer and etch his name in the team’s history.
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