The New York Yankees have officially reinstated right-hander Luke Weaver from the 15-day injured list. He missed just a few weeks after straining his left hamstring on June 1. Weaver returns without a rehab stint, a clear sign of the team’s confidence. His quick recovery surprised many and offers a boost to an already strong bullpen.
Before the injury, Weaver had emerged as a dominant force. He posted a 1.05 ERA, 0.70 WHIP, and eight saves across 25⅔ innings. His early-season surge pushed him into the closer role, where he thrived. The question now: does he step right back in?
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Devin Williams Makes His Case After Luke Weaver Return
While Luke Weaver was sidelined, Devin Williams took over the ninth inning. He went 4-for-4 in save chances and posted a 1.76 ERA across 5⅔ innings. Williams didn’t just hold the line — he made an impression. His signature changeup, the “Airbender,” helped him lock down tight games.
With Luke Weaver reinstated, the Yankees must now decide how to proceed. Manager Aaron Boone hasn’t named a closer. When asked, he kept things open-ended. “We’ll see,” Boone said, adding that roles may shift based on performance and matchups. His comments hint at a flexible approach, at least in the short term.
Crowded Bullpen, More Options
The Yankees bullpen is deep and talented. Fernando Cruz continues to shine in the setup role, generating plenty of strikeouts. Jonathan Loáisiga and Mark Leiter Jr. have offered steady relief. Yerry De los Santos is recovering from elbow discomfort and should return soon.
To clear space for Weaver, the Yankees optioned Jayvien Sandridge back to Triple-A. The move suggests they plan to rely on experienced arms as the season heats up. With Luke Weaver reinstated and healthy, the bullpen looks more formidable than ever.
Could the Yankees Split Closer Duties?
Boone now has the option to play matchups late in games. Both Weaver and Williams have shown they can handle the ninth. One could close games based on opponent handedness, rest, or recent workload. It’s a strategy that offers flexibility, but it can also create uncertainty.
Some closers thrive with routine. Others don’t mind the rotation. Either way, the Yankees have depth — and that matters in a long season.
Weaver’s Edge in the Ninth
Despite Williams’ strong showing, Weaver may still hold the edge. His strikeout-to-walk ratio has been excellent. He’s commanding the zone, limiting damage, and keeping hitters off balance. His velocity jumped early this year, another reason Boone trusted him with the ninth inning to begin with.
Williams remains a valuable weapon. But he may fit better as a setup man, especially in fireman-style situations when leverage appears earlier in games.
Structured Usage May Help Weaver Stay Healthy
Weaver has dealt with injuries before. Returning to a structured closer role — with defined days and innings — could help keep him fresh. High-leverage outings are still intense, but the predictability may work in his favor.
The Yankees understand this. Managing workload is key, especially for arms with injury history. Expect Boone to monitor Weaver’s usage carefully, at least at first.
Key Addition Ahead of Crucial Series
New York begins a three-game series against the Orioles on June 20. The timing of Weaver’s return is ideal. The bullpen has carried a heavy load, and having another late-inning option matters in close games. Whether Weaver closes right away or not, he strengthens the unit.
Boone now has a full bullpen — and choices. That’s a good problem to have.
Breakout Season Reshapes Expectations
Weaver wasn’t signed to be the closer. Early in the season, he earned the role by outpitching expectations. He turned in elite numbers, kept games in check, and rarely gave opponents a chance in the ninth.
His resurgence changes how the Yankees use their bullpen. It also changes what opponents expect when facing New York late in games.
Final Take: Closer Role Likely Weaver’s to Lose
Barring setbacks or a dominant stretch from Williams, Weaver seems poised to take back the closer job. He’s done the job before, and done it well. Boone may test a few combinations early, but if Weaver looks sharp, expect him back in the ninth full time.
The Yankees have the depth to adjust if needed. But when the game’s on the line, Luke Weaver is who they want on the mound.
