Weaver’s Struggles Continue

Toronto – The issues that Luke Weaver is facing as a pitcher are becoming clearer.

However, as evident from Saturday’s game, the fix isn’t quite there yet.

In recent weeks, the Yankees have pinpointed that this usually reliable right-hander has been tilting his pitches. Weaver attempted to adjust his technique to prevent batters from reading his pitches, but this change has proven challenging.

This postseason, Weaver entered the game against three batters—and didn’t retire any.

In fact, his October ERA is concerning; he has given up five runs and two walks from four hits without securing a single out.

“I really don’t feel like I am right,” Weaver remarked after a tough 10-1 loss to the Blue Jays at Rogers Center. “It’s hard to clearly focus and attack when you’re like this. Physically, I feel strong, and mentally, I’m mostly okay.

“But I think there are a few factors piling up on me.”

These challenges have escalated to the point where the Yankees’ coaching staff has stepped in to analyze Weaver’s pitching. They intend to scrutinize every pitcher and identify how opposing teams could predict their pitches.

With postseason pressure mounting, the Yankees felt Weaver’s difficulties needed urgent attention.

“When something’s not right, adjustments are necessary,” Blake said.

Such adjustments are common, but they’re not often made during high-stakes games.

“It’s a lot to handle, but we’re working on it,” Weaver stated after pitching into the seventh inning when his team was behind 2-1. He walked Dolton Varche before allowing singles to Anthony Santander and Andres Guimenez, which resulted in a tough four-run inning.

The Yankees are under the impression that Weaver isn’t effectively turning over his pitches.

Yet, it seems that the adjustments have impacted his mindset and execution on the mound.

“That’s really the issue—how much of your heart is being pulled away from executing the pitch,” Blake remarked. “That’s the delicate balance you need to maintain.”

Weaver seemed to embody the potential he had last season and in last October, being a crucial part of the club.

This year, however, has been a bit of a rollercoaster. He started off strong, boasting a 1.05 ERA until a hamstring issue sidelined him in June. This setback caused him to struggle in the latter part of the season, giving up eight runs over several outings.

While it’s uncertain how effectively he is adjusting mid-pitch, both Blake and manager Aaron Boone suspect his fundamentals appear to be there.

“I feel like I’m close. I feel competitive,” Weaver shared following the game, which left him feeling more frustrated than defeated. “I don’t feel hit hard, but everyone seems to be finding holes… I think my adjustments came a bit late.”