Yankees Shake Up Bullpen: Luke Weaver’s Return Could Threaten Devin Williams’ Closer Role

The Yankees reinstated right-handed reliever Luke Weaver (left hamstring strain) from the injured list ahead of Friday’s series opener against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium. To make room, the team optioned left-hander Jayvien Sandridge late Thursday.

Weaver had recently thrown a simulated game at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday, and his activation could signal a return to the closer role. However, manager Aaron Boone didn’t confirm that move. Devin Williams has handled the role effectively since Weaver’s June 3 IL stint, recording a 1.59 ERA and four saves in six appearances. Still, Weaver was the team’s go-to closer earlier this season, posting a stellar 1.05 ERA with eight saves in 24 games after Williams’ rocky start.

Reinserting Weaver into late-inning duties—whether as closer or setup—strengthens the bullpen. Right-hander Fernando Cruz has struggled since his return from the IL (6.35 ERA in seven outings), and Jonathan Loáisiga has been inconsistent. Meanwhile, Mark Leiter Jr. leads the bullpen in appearances (35) with a 3.60 ERA.

Boone emphasized the broader impact of Weaver’s return: “It’s Luke Weaver… The ripple effect is huge—he makes everyone’s job easier at the back end.”

Weaver reinvented himself as a reliever last season, compiling a 2.89 ERA in 62 games after spending most of his career as a starter. He also excelled in the 2023 postseason with a 1.76 ERA and four saves in 12 games.

Even with Weaver back, the Yankees are expected to pursue bullpen help at the trade deadline. While their relievers rank 10th in ERA (3.49), walks remain an issue (3.87 per nine innings, 24th in MLB), despite a top-five strikeout rate.

Luis Gil (lat strain) could return around the All-Star break and provide an additional boost to both the bullpen and rotation. His activation might move lefty Ryan Yarbrough—who’s pitched well as a starter (3.83 ERA in eight starts)—back to a relief role, where he has substantial experience.