BOSTON – Trade Deadline Updates for Yankees’ Bullpen
Brian Cashman’s significant move during the trade deadline aimed to improve a struggling bullpen.
Now, nearly six weeks later, it’s still, well, evolving.
“Some did more than others,” Cashman remarked on Friday about his trade decisions. “I felt optimistic about our deadline moves. But, as always, it needs time to mesh. It turns out we started winning games anyway, despite some shaky performances.”
This was evident during Friday night’s game when Fernando Cruz, Devin Williams, and David Bednar contributed to a 4-1 win against the Red Sox. Although Cruz allowed a solo home run in the seventh, Williams sealed the game in the ninth, and Bednar closed it out strong.
“We have capable guys. There are those who can finish games,” manager Aaron Boone noted. “The key is consistency.”
Among the new relief options Cashman brought in, only Bednar has consistently delivered as the closer. Unfortunately, Kamilo Doval struggled, entering the night with a 6.59 ERA over 16 games against the Yankees. Jake Bird was recently sent down to Triple-A after allowing six runs in just three outings.
Doval is adjusting to a new role, which, evidently, hasn’t been smooth.
“Everyone’s trying to figure themselves out in this new scenario,” Cashman said. “But he’s definitely having a tough time.”
The Yankees’ bullpen averaged a 4.54 ERA as of Friday, ranking seventh highest in the league. When questioned about his confidence in their ability to improve as October approaches, Cashman pointed to their history.
“There’s a lot of talent,” he said. “These guys have done great things before. I know what they’re capable of. We’ll see how it plays out, but I certainly hope for the best.”
In a separate highlight, Aaron Judge hit his 19th home run in the first inning, breaking the MLB single-season record previously shared with himself (2024) and Alex Rodriguez (2001).
Giancarlo Stanton made his fourth start in left field, playing in front of the Green Monster on Friday.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. managed to swipe two bases, though he was caught trying to steal again. He’s just two home runs away from clinching a 30/30 season.
