Yankees Shift Bullpen Amid Tight AL Wild Card Race

The New York Yankees are strategically managing their pitching staff as they approach a critical stretch of the 2025 season, focusing heavily on bullpen performance and roster flexibility. Ryan Yarbrough, initially a starter before injury, will now serve as a multi-inning reliever to provide a unique left-handed option out of the bullpen, with the team planning to activate him soon following his rehab starts. The bullpen, which has struggled with a 4.88 ERA in August, remains a concern as the Yankees prepare for a challenging schedule against strong postseason contenders; however, key relievers like David Bednar, Luke Weaver, Tim Hill, and returning Fernando Cruz offer reliable options. To address inconsistencies, the Yankees added veteran Paul Blackburn to bolster bullpen depth, reflecting their proactive approach to roster improvements. Meanwhile, the team optioned reliever Yerry de Los Santos to Triple-A after a rough ninth inning where he surrendered a grand slam, making room for the return of right-hander Luis Gil who will strengthen the bullpen for the final month. Overall, the Yankees are balancing injury returns, new acquisitions, and performance management to ensure their pitching staff can withstand the demanding postseason push.