Yankees Linked on Landing Left-handed Reliever with Sub-1.55 ERA in Offseason to Strengthen Their Bullpen
The New York Yankees have several offseason moves to consider, with superstar Juan Soto being the main focus. However, their smaller, more marginal decisions will be just as critical.
One area for improvement is their bullpen, particularly in the later innings. There will be several options available in free agency, including left-hander Tanner Scott, who was traded to the San Diego Padres at the deadline, strengthening their bullpen.
MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand identified the Yankees as a possible fit for Scott, noting his emergence as one of the top relievers in the league. Scott earned his first All-Star nod this summer, posting a 1.18 ERA and 18 saves in 44 games with the Marlins before moving to a setup role for the Padres in July.
Feinsand added that Scott will likely be the best closer on the market, attracting significant interest from teams in need of dependable relief pitching.
Scott Named a Top 25 Free Agent
Tanner Scott earned his first All-Star selection in 2024, marking his best season statistically. He posted a 1.54 ERA over 70 1/3 innings, striking out 83 batters in 70 appearances. His strong performance could lead to a high price tag for the New York Yankees in free agency.
Scott’s success earned him a spot on Joel Reuter’s Bleacher Report top 25 free agents list, where he ranked No. 18. Reuter highlighted how rare Scott’s value is, noting that only two relievers—Zack Britton (2016) and Blake Treinen (2018)—have posted a 4-WAR season in the past 15 years, underscoring Scott’s impact.
With 53 saves, 37 holds, a 2.68 ERA, and an 11.8 K/9 rate over 209 appearances in the last three years, Scott could become the highest-paid reliever in the 2024-25 offseason class.
Hal Steinbrenner’s Questionable Comments About Yankees Payroll
The New York Yankees have long maintained one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball, but owner Hal Steinbrenner suggested in May that the team might reduce spending in the future.
“Payrolls at the levels we’re at right now are simply not sustainable for us financially. It wouldn’t be sustainable for most ownership groups, given the luxury tax we have to pay,” Steinbrenner said, according to Dan Martin of the *New York Post*. He also emphasized that he doesn’t believe a $300 million payroll is necessary to win a championship.
“I’ve been saying this repeatedly: I don’t think I need a $300 million payroll to win a title,” Steinbrenner explained. “I believe in a balance of well-paid veterans and homegrown talent. We’ve invested significantly in our player development over the last 5-10 years, and I think we now have one of the best systems in baseball.”
This could make signing someone like Tanner Scott a challenge. However, as history shows, the Yankees have the financial power to make deals happen, and if they’re determined to acquire Scott, they will likely find a way.