After strengthening their pitching rotation by adding Max Fried on Tuesday, the New York Yankees continued to improve their bullpen by re-signing a familiar face. The team has agreed to a one-year deal with Jonathan Loaisiga, which includes a team option for 2026, as reported by ESPN’s Jorge Castillo.
Loaisiga, who has battled injuries in recent seasons, has had an up-and-down track record. He missed two months in 2022 due to shoulder inflammation, appeared in only 17 games in 2023 after undergoing arthroscopic surgery to remove a bone spur in his right elbow, and played just three games in 2024 before requiring season-ending elbow surgery. However, when healthy, Loaisiga has been highly effective. In his last full season, 2021, he posted a 2.17 ERA in 57 appearances. With Clay Holmes leaving for the Mets, there will be significant innings available in the Yankees’ bullpen, and if Loaisiga can stay healthy, he could emerge as a key high-leverage reliever.
Despite re-signing Loaisiga, the Yankees are likely to continue looking for additional bullpen help, both in free agency and via trades. Potential targets include free agents Tanner Scott and Jeff Hoffman, as well as Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams.
In addition to strengthening the bullpen, the Yankees’ offseason priorities also include bolstering their infield and outfield. For third base, the Yankees are considering signing free agent Alex Bregman or making a trade for Nolan Arenado from the St. Louis Cardinals. At first base, Pete Alonso and Christian Walker are top free agent options. For the outfield, the Yankees could pursue free agents like Teoscar Hernandez or Anthony Santander, or trade for stars like Kyle Tucker of the Houston Astros or Cody Bellinger of the Chicago Cubs.
While missing out on Juan Soto was a setback, retaining Loaisiga, who could surprise if he stays healthy, is a solid move for the Yankees.
