Luke Weaver Impresses with Performance against Rangers
Luke Weaver had quite the journey this season, switching teams four times just during the Yankees’ regular-season stretch when pitchers were called to work three consecutive days.
Yeah, it’s been some time since that happened.
On Thursday, he came through with the final three outs in a nail-biting 1-0 win over the Rangers, completing a sweep of the series. Surprisingly, he recorded a victory and two saves, all while only throwing 18 pitches.
“Getting it done quickly makes it a lot less stressful,” Weaver mentioned.
Manager Aaron Boone called on Arol Dis Chapman to pitch for the first time on September 15, 2021, amidst a tight playoff race.
“He took a break days earlier and threw just two pitches two nights ago,” Boone noted. “There was a little wear, but today we’re in a save situation. He felt good to go.”
For Weaver, the conversation around pitching has been a bit more complex, especially considering his experience with the Yankees during their World Series run in 2024.
“Efficiency is great, but it doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear,” Weaver pointed out. “Sometimes, just because you haven’t thrown many pitches, doesn’t mean everything is perfectly fine.”
The Yankees bullpen has faced some challenges lately, with Fernando Cruz set for the injured list. Ian Hamilton has been pitching back-to-back days, and Yerry de Los Santos had a rough 25-pitch outing. Meanwhile, Jonathan Loáisiga hasn’t pitched on consecutive days since coming off the injured list.
“I understand the situation,” Weaver reflected. “Naturally, I wanted the opportunity. I didn’t throw that many pitches, so I didn’t have much to argue. When it was my moment, I stepped up and closed the game. Thankfully, it ended well. Now, back to recovery.”
To secure the 1-0 lead, Weaver faced a third of the Rangers lineup, managing two flyouts and a critical strikeout to end the game.
With that outing, he lowered his ERA to an impressive 0.40.
“That’s quite remarkable,” said Carlos Rodon, who pitched six scoreless innings. “It’s all about staying ahead and being dominant, which is what he’s done. He’s crucial for us this year.”
Weaver appears to be reclaiming his role as closer away from Devin Williams.
He believes that rushing for strikeouts isn’t necessary for him.
“I aim to attack batters quickly,” Weaver shared. “Reaching two strikes every time isn’t my goal. I want to be efficient, be ready for the next day, and make it easier for my arms and body while ensuring the dugouts and fans can breathe a little easier.”
