Yankees’ New Closer Luke Weaver Emerges as a Force

NEW YORK, N.Y. — After a tumultuous off-season, the New York Yankees have found new life in their bullpen with Luke Weaver stepping up as the team’s new closer. Following Clay Holmes‘ exit, Weaver has transitioned into this pivotal role just in time for a crucial stretch in the 2025 season.

The Yankees’ decision to trade for Weaver, alongside relievers Devin Williams and Fernando Cruz, aimed to reinforce a bullpen that struggled in 2024. Despite initial criticism, investors in this strategy are hoping it pays off as MLB fans have seen Weaver round into form.

In his first few games with the Yankees, Williams found himself contending with shaky performances, raising alarms among the fanbase. After a strong previous season where he yielded only three runs in 21.2 innings, he remarkably gave up five runs in his first four appearances this year, including a troubling walk rate of 19.4 percent.

However, the tide has turned. As of recent outings, Williams has not allowed a run in four consecutive appearances, showcasing a return to vintage form. His standout moment came during a matchup against the Kansas City Royals, where an exhilarating strikeout of MJ Melendez crowned him the hero of the night.

In the game against the Royals, the ninth inning presented a chance for Weaver to emphasize his potential. With two outs and following a challenging start to the season, he executed a strategy that included a tactical changeup intended to deceive the hitter. That strategic pitch ultimately set him up for a strikeout, a crucial moment that highlighted his refined skills on the mound.

Analyzing the game, Weaver first threw a beautifully placed fastball that caught the outside corner at 96 mph, which was his quickest of the season. Melendez, visibly late, swung and missed the pitched ball, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest of wits between pitcher and batter.

“With this strikeout, it’s a testament to all the hard work I’ve put in during the offseason,” Weaver stated following the game. “I feel I am getting more comfortable with my pitches and trust my mechanics more.”

The evolution of Weaver’s pitching was evident, marked by adjustments that began to optimize his fastball command—a lingering issue that shadowed his early season struggles. He exemplified his progress, consistently hitting his spots after a daunting initiation period.

As the curtain rises on the remainder of the season, Yankees fans are cautiously optimistic about Weaver and their restructured bullpen. If he can continue this trajectory, his role as a reliable closer could pivot the Yankees’ season towards success.