The New York Yankees, facing injuries to key pitchers like Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, are adjusting their pitching staff. With trade rumors fading and options dwindling, the team made a move on Tuesday by signing Jake Woodford, a former first-round pick, to a minor-league deal. Woodford, who recently opted out of his contract with the Colorado Rockies, will start the season in Triple-A but could see major league action soon due to the team’s current pitching challenges. Over five MLB seasons, Woodford has a 4.88 ERA and struggled with a 7.97 ERA in 2024 with the White Sox and Pirates. The Yankees hope to turn him into a reliable reliever, especially with injuries affecting several of their pitchers.
Yankees RHP Clarke Schmidt (shoulder) likely IL-bound | | dailypostathenian.com
In another move, the Yankees signed left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough to a major-league contract. Yarbrough, known for limiting hard contact, had a solid 2024 season with a 3.19 ERA and a 5-2 record in 44 games. The Yankees aim to use him either as a reliever or a spot starter. Yarbrough expressed his excitement about joining the Yankees, citing their success in improving pitchers.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman said that the team is still exploring all options, including possible free agents and trade opportunities, before the season opener on Thursday.