New York Yankees Reunion in the Cards? Bombers Face Bullpen Blow as Bitter Rivals Sign Star Closer

‘This is a season of reunions’, it seems. All-Star reliever Josh Hader has reportedly signed a 5-year, $95 million deal with the team that traded him after a terrific minor league season – the Houston Astros. While the Astronauts are on the moon, the New York Yankees suddenly have something to think about. With the team needing a reliever – is a reunion on cards for the Pinstripes as well?

The Bronx Bombers recently gave a finishing touch to their starting lineup. So obviously, they’re now focused on improving their bullpen. Despite having a few relievers, the Yankees need a strong lefty to balance things out. Luckily for them, there’s a certain extremely loved pitcher available in the market. 

New York Yankees looking to change gears 

Ever since the trade of Juan Soto, the bullpen of the Yankees has been lacking in talent. It’s a sharp contrast to 2023, when they had arguably the best pitching staff in the league. Even though the Hader-Yankees links weren’t ever the deepest, there was still a flicker of hope left in the Yankee Nation. But now that he’s gone, the fanbase is calling for a reunion with the pitcher Wandy Peralta.

The love for Wandy in the Pinstripes is obvious. The Athletic reported, “The Yankees love the quirky Peralta, who’s said to have one of the wildest senses of humor in the clubhouse.” While his magnetic personality is a big reason for his fame, Peralta was also highly impactful during his three seasons with the Bombers. 

Peralta had his career-best ERA of 2.82 during the 2021-2023 season he spent wearing the pinstripes. Though 2023 was a relatively barren year for him, partly because of the triceps injury that he sustained. Even then, Peralta remained one of the few bright spots for the Bronx side with a 4-2 record. 

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So it makes sense that the Pinstripes will look to bring back La Grasa. Especially as their need for a reliever is quite profound.

The Pinstripes’ reduced bullpen

The right-handed domination of the Yankees bullpen is a troubling sign for the team. While their right-handed relievers have shown an ability to strike out lefties, a strong left-hander would make things easier. That’s why Peralta and Hader have been the frontrunners on nearly everyone’s list. With Hader gone, the 33-year-old Peralta could look to get a two-year contract with the Pinstripes. 

Apart from him, the Yankees are also reportedly in contact with former Astros’ reliever – Hector Neris. The pitcher has crossed at least 68 games in the last five seasons. This could be an attractive point for the Pinstripes, who know the pain of injury troubles. So with the bullpen now becoming the focus, it’ll be interesting to see how the Bombers will shape up. 

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