The New York Yankees made headlines by acquiring elite closer Devin Williams this past offseason, but it’s been veteran right-hander Luke Weaver who has unexpectedly taken center stage. What began as a bullpen full of question marks now features Weaver as its most reliable and dominant arm — a surprising development few saw coming.
An Unexpected Breakout
Weaver signed a modest two-year, $4.5 million contract with little fanfare. His career had been marked by inconsistency and frequent team changes — until he arrived in the Bronx.
In 2024, Weaver posted a strong 2.89 ERA over 84 innings, then elevated his performance even further in the postseason with a 1.76 ERA across 15.1 innings. While Williams faced early-season struggles, Weaver stepped up as the Yankees’ go-to reliever in tight situations.
In 2025, he’s taken it to another level.
Dominating the League
So far this season, Weaver has been nearly unhittable, boasting a minuscule 0.40 ERA in 22.2 innings. He’s suffocating opposing hitters with a 0.53 WHIP and ranks among the league’s best in nearly every advanced stat:
- 99th percentile in expected ERA
- 98th percentile in expected batting average
- At least 83rd percentile in chase rate, whiff rate, and strikeout rate
And he’s doing all of this without the formal title of “closer,” quietly locking down crucial innings in every game situation.
Time for an Extension?
At 31, Weaver still likely has a few productive years left. Given his performance, value, and clear fit with the team, it might be wise for the Yankees to pursue an extension before he hits free agency after this season. Though the team holds a club option for 2025, locking him up for another two or three years could prove to be a smart move — especially since Weaver has expressed a desire to remain with the Yankees.
A Strengthened Bullpen
With Jonathan Loáisiga back from injury and Devin Williams rounding into form, New York’s bullpen is shaping into a formidable trio. Weaver, in particular, provides manager Aaron Boone with tremendous flexibility, capable of handling any high-leverage inning from the sixth through the eighth.
And with his proven postseason track record, Weaver is exactly the kind of arm the Yankees will need in October. He’s already delivered when it matters most — and now, he’s performing at an even higher level.
