The Yankees agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal with injury-prone reliever Jonathan Loaisiga several weeks ago, including a club option for 2026. This move signals a gamble on Loaisiga’s immense potential despite his troubling injury history.
Last season, the 30-year-old threw just four innings before going down with yet another injury, ending his season prematurely. However, the Yankees are betting on a return to form for a pitcher who, at his best, can be one of the most dominant bullpen arms in baseball.
A Glimpse of Greatness
Loaisiga’s breakout campaign in 2021 showcased his ceiling. Over 70.2 innings, he posted a stellar 2.17 ERA, firmly establishing himself as a reliable late-inning option. His arsenal was at its peak that year, highlighted by a devastating curveball that held opposing batters to a microscopic .098 batting average. His sinker was also effective, limiting batters to a .245 average and generating plenty of ground balls. Despite his shoulder issues and limited availability in recent years, Loaisiga’s velocity hasn’t dipped, providing a glimmer of hope for a resurgence.
Injury Concerns Linger
While Loaisiga’s talent is undeniable, his durability remains a massive question mark. Persistent throwing arm and shoulder issues have derailed his career, making him a high-risk, high-reward signing. The Yankees must believe in the progress of his rehabilitation and his readiness for 2025, or they wouldn’t have committed to this extension.
High-Leverage Potential
If healthy, Loaisiga has the tools to dominate in high-leverage situations, even potentially closing games in a playoff setting. His ability to induce weak contact and execute his pitch mix effectively makes him a tantalizing option for the Yankees’ bullpen. With a sinker, changeup, and curveball combination that can baffle hitters, Loaisiga provides the Yankees with a potential weapon to strengthen their relief corps.
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Though his recent seasons have been marred by injuries, the Yankees are banking on Loaisiga rediscovering his 2021 form. If he can stay on the mound, his upside as a game-changing bullpen piece is well worth the risk.