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The New York Yankees traded for three talented, controllable relievers at this year’s trade deadline. David Bednar, Camilo Doval and Jake Bird all figure to play a big role next season, but what does that mean for Luke Weaver?
Weaver became a fan favorite in the Bronx last season. He posted a 2.89 ERA in 62 games. In 12 postseason games, he finished eight games and picked up four saves. He had a 1.76 ERA in October.
Weaver is going to be a free agent after the season, and the additions of Bednar, Doval and Bird give the Yankees a reason to let him walk. Weaver has also dealt with injuries this season and has not been quite as sharp. He is still pitching well, posting a 3.10 ERA in 31 games. FanSided’s Adam Weinrib believes the trade deadline sealed his fate, and he will not be back next year.
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Had the Yankees not added two capable closers at the deadline, Weaver could have signed back to be the closer after the team lets Devin Williams walk. Weaver had filled in at closer while Williams was struggling, and it can be argued that he was still the better choice to close games before the trade deadline.
However, the Yankees are not going to commit top dollar to Weaver, knowing they have Bednar, Doval and Bird in their bullpen next season. Instead, they will likely try to spend elsewhere to upgrade their roster. If Weaver is willing to sign for a discount, he may stay, but he should have no shortage of strong offers on the open market.
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