Another criticizing round for the New York Yankees! Why are they not pursuing a reunion with the dependable left-handed reliever Tim Hill? Instead, the Yanks are considering 36-year-old southpaw Brooks Raley, as per recent reports. A dissatisfying move for fans and analysts who are skeptical about the team’s choices and strategies for their bullpen.

In 2023, Hill played for the Yankees followed by joining the Padres, proving himself in high-leverage moments. At 34 years old, he maintained a 3:30 ERA over 60 innings. Tim has skillfully handled left-handed hitters by limiting them to a meager .210 average. And so, with the Yankees currently bereft of a single lefty, his consistency and availability make him an obvious solution. Yet, the team’s focus appears to have shifted toward Raley, who won’t be ready to pitch until at least July.

Calls for stability as the Yankees eye risky pitching options

The Yankee Report posted a picture of Brooks Raley on Instagram with Ken Rosenthal of the Athletics commenting that the Yankees have reportedly shown interest in LHP Brooks Raley. Recovering from Tommy John surgery, he is expected to return to the mound by July. While linked to lefties Tim Hill and Andrew Chafin this offseason, it’s surprising they’d target an injured pitcher given their bullpen’s lack of left-handers. A reunion with the reliable Tim Hill remains more practical. Don’t you think?

However, Raley’s track record, particularly his stellar 2023 campaign with the Mets (2.80 ERA, 10.04 K/9 over 54.2 innings), undeniably carries appeal. Still banking on a 36-year-old reliever returning midseason after major surgery? Sounds risky, ain’t it? With the Yankees aiming to compete in a loaded AL East, prioritizing stability over uncertainty should be a no-brainer.

Critics argue that the Yankees’ lineup approach reflects an offseason strategy lacking cohesion. While high-profile moves like acquiring Max Fried and Cody Bellinger have bolstered the roster, the team has neglected smaller yet essential upgrades. Not having a reliever is a noticeable flaw where most AL East teams have their strong left-handed hitters. So, relying on an injured pitcher might not ensure the team’s preparedness for the upcoming season.

The team’s playoff failures for years have already disappointed fans. And now, such management moves are driving them to speak out loud. Many feel that the Yankees are gambling unnecessarily instead of addressing obvious needs, raising questions about the team building a balanced roster.

Fans demand Tim Hill’s return to strengthen the bullpen

An infuriated fan regarding the Yankees’ rumored interest advocated for Tim Hill as the better option. “Tim Hill is the only left-handed reliever the Yankees should be thinking right now, not some other guy that is injury prone.” They believe a healthy Hill should be the clear choice to address the team’s lack of left-handed relievers, rather than taking a gamble on a pitcher recovering from surgery.

Another one familiar with his past contributions has shown support for Tim Hill, who proved to be an asset for the Yankees in 2023 with a 3.30 ERA over 60 innings. Showing confusion over the Yanks’ moves, the comment read, “What’s the deal with Hill? I have not read much about him, but I thought he served the Yankees pretty well.” His consistency and durability kind of make him a necessity. So, believably, he’s the logical choice for the Yankees to fill their left-handed reliever need.

There is frustration with the Yankees’ alleged interest in yet another injury-prone aging player like Brooks Raley. General manager Brian Cashman is facing criticism for focusing on older players rather than seeking younger, more reliable options. “Really, another “OLD” recently injured player? Really? Will someone with a brain tell Cashman that baseball is a young man’s game. Apparently, Cashman’s brain has already retired, the rest of him should follow!!” Feels like Cashman is out of touch with the game’s current state, where youth and stability are considered more crucial than ever.

Another user mocked the Yankees’ interest in a 36-year-old pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery, calling it a typical move by the team. “Total Yankee move to get a 36-year-old coming off Tommy John surgery makes perfect sense.” Evidently, it’s another example of the team making questionable decisions rather than a more sensible option for strengthening the roster.

The post even saw supporters getting adamant for the Yankees to re-sign Tim Hill, identifying the issue of dealing a pitcher who won’t be ready until July isn’t a worthwhile option. “We need to sign back Tim Hill!! This guy isn’t good; if he’s not going to play until July don’t get him!!” Seems pretty clear that Hill might be a smarter choice, given his availability.

Fans are literally urging the New York Yankees to bring back Tim Hill instead of taking a chance on an injured pitcher like Brooks Raley. Well, the team needs stability, not more uncertainty! What do you think should be the right move?