As the postseason approaches, the Yankees will need to make strategic decisions about their closer role, particularly regarding Clay Holmes. The 31-year-old impending free agent has posted a 3.36 ERA this season, but his recent struggles have cast doubt on his reliability. Since September 1, Holmes has made seven appearances, registering a 10.80 ERA—a concerning trend that may compromise manager Aaron Boone’s trust in him as the team heads into October.
Boone’s Creative Approach to the Closer Role
In response to Holmes’ inconsistency, Boone has taken a more flexible approach to the closer spot, turning to newly available bullpen arms like Ian Hamilton and Luke Weaver. Weaver, a 31-year-old veteran whom the Yankees acquired from Seattle last season, has quickly earned Boone’s trust. After tossing 13.1 innings last season, the Yankees opted to sign Weaver to a one-year, $2 million deal with a 2025 club option—an option they are almost certain to pick up.
Weaver’s Career Resurgence with the Yankees
Weaver’s journey has taken him through several teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Arizona Diamondbacks, Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati Reds, and Seattle Mariners, before finding a home in the Bronx. This season, he has delivered an impressive 3.02 ERA over 80.1 innings, with 10.64 strikeouts per nine innings, an 80.3% left-on-base rate, and a 36.8% ground ball rate. His resurgence has been particularly notable in recent weeks.
Since September 1, Weaver has posted a 2.16 ERA, highlighted by an incredible 18.36 strikeouts per nine innings. He hasn’t allowed a run in five consecutive appearances, demonstrating his dominance on the mound. His advanced metrics also speak volumes: Weaver ranks in the 89th percentile in expected batting average (.207), the 81st percentile in chase rate, the 93rd percentile in whiff rate, and the 91st percentile in strikeout rate. These swing-and-miss capabilities have transformed Weaver into one of the Yankees’ most trusted high-leverage arms, making him a potential closer candidate as the playoffs approach.
A Revamped Arsenal: The Key to Weaver’s Success
Weaver’s success stems from his revamped pitch arsenal, which includes a four-seam fastball, changeup, and cutter. Notably, his fastball has seen a 1.7 mph increase in velocity compared to 2023, now averaging 95.7 mph. After allowing a .311 batting average with his fastball last year, this season, hitters are managing just a .176 batting average against it, with a .353 slugging percentage.
His changeup has been equally effective, boasting a .183 batting average against it, along with a 45.7% whiff rate and 41 strikeouts despite being used just 27.9% of the time. This pitch has emerged as his primary strikeout weapon, showcasing the work of Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake in helping Weaver unlock his potential.
Weaver’s Impact in the Clubhouse and on the Mound
Weaver’s transformation on the field has been accompanied by his infectious enthusiasm off it. His excitement was on full display during the Yankees’ playoff-clinching celebration on Wednesday, underscoring his gratitude for being part of a championship-caliber team.
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As the Yankees gear up for a deep playoff run, Weaver’s resurgence will be a key factor in their success. Whether he steps into the closer role or remains a versatile high-leverage option, his contributions could be pivotal as the Yankees chase their World Series aspirations.