Yankees Could Target These 3 Overlooked Relievers on the Trade Market
The New York Yankees are renowned for maximizing value from their bullpen, even with a depleted group. While it’s impressive, every team in baseball aims to optimize their bullpen, often bringing in veterans needing a tweak or unproven talents with potential. Some organizations either fail to identify the necessary adjustments or recognize them too late, causing players’ overall numbers to underwhelm fans at the deadline.
The Yankees need players who will provide value in the second half, which doesn’t always mean targeting those with the best first halves. These three ascending relievers, though not top wish list names, could offer significant value at the trade deadline for the Yankees.
Former Yankees’ Farmhand Could Provide Bullpen a Spark
Selected in the 30th round of the 2024 MLB Draft, John Brebbia could be a low-cost addition who might boost the Yankees’ bullpen. Despite a 4.50 ERA this season, his 3.22 FIP and 30% strikeout rate suggest positive regression is imminent. Brebbia has shown improvement with a 31.6% K-BB% and a 1.40 ERA, attributed to consistently throwing his fastball up in the zone, increasing his Whiff Rate, and enhancing damage suppression. His four-seamer, with mid-90s velocity and significant vertical ride, fits the Yankees’ current needs. Priced at roughly $5 million this season with a club option for 2025, he should be affordable.
Brebbia, though not a flashy name, has made noticeable adjustments in fastball command, making him a worthy flyer. While he wouldn’t fix the bullpen alone, he could be a strong supplementary piece and one of the better deals at the trade deadline for the Yankees.
Failed Starter Turned Dominant Reliever
AJ Puk struggled as a starter for the Miami Marlins, posting a 9.22 ERA and walking 17 batters in 13.2 innings through his first four starts. Since transitioning to a reliever, he’s become one of the best left-handed relievers in baseball, boasting a 2.30 ERA and 2.73 FIP across 27.1 innings. Puk’s success is due to using a firmer slider over his sweeper, resulting in a 48.8% Whiff Rate and enhanced fastball effectiveness.
Since June 19th, Puk has used his slider 34.6% of the time without allowing an earned run, striking out 42.6% of hitters faced. This dominant repertoire is crucial as the Yankees lack swing-and-miss arms. Puk also offers two more years of control after 2024, making him a valuable long-term option. His underlying data suggests he could be acquired at a lower price than some alternatives while providing substantial rewards.
Veteran Bullpen Piece Finding a Second Wind
Andrew Chafin, after posting a 4.73 ERA and 4.01 FIP across 51.1 innings with the Diamondbacks and Marlins, has made a key change. By incorporating his slider more frequently, Chafin has increased his strikeouts and reduced damage contact. Over his last 14 games, using the slider 49.7% of the time, he has achieved a 0.69 ERA and a 34.6% K%.
Chafin ranks in the 95th percentile in Chase Rate and the 93rd percentile in Whiff Rate, addressing the Yankees’ need for swing-and-miss capabilities. He could replace Wandy Peralta’s role from last year, particularly against left-handed hitters, holding them to a .236 SLG% with a 33.3% strikeout rate. Despite his effectiveness, Chafin’s long hair could be a concern due to the Yankees’ grooming policy. Nevertheless, he could be a valuable, cost-effective addition, especially if paired with another player like Jack Flaherty.
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