The Yankees continue to take strategic risks on bullpen arms with high potential, as demonstrated by their decision to bring back Jonathan Loaisiga on a one-year deal with a 2026 club option. Despite interest from multiple teams, including the New York Mets, Loaisiga chose to remain in the Bronx, determined to recover his form after years of injury struggles.
A Career Interrupted by Injuries
The 30-year-old right-hander has been plagued by elbow and shoulder problems, limiting him to just four innings in 2024 and 17.2 innings in 2023. Loaisiga is now focused on rehabilitation and preparing for the 2025 season, aiming to overcome the health issues that have hindered his career in recent years.
Jonathan Loaisiga’s Peak Performance
At his best in 2021, Loaisiga was one of the Yankees’ most dependable pitchers, logging 70.2 innings with a 2.17 ERA. He struck out 8.79 batters per nine innings, posted a 79.1% left-on-base rate, and had a 60.9% ground ball rate. His fastball, which averaged 98.5 mph that year, placed him in the 99th percentile for fastball velocity, exit velocity, chase rate, hard-hit rate, and ground ball percentage.
Potential for a Strong Comeback
Loaisiga’s fastball velocity remains a major asset, as he still reached 98.5 mph in his limited appearances in 2024, well above his career average of 96.7 mph. The Yankees are counting on his potential, believing that if he stays healthy, Loaisiga could return to being a key late-game contributor or even an elite closer.
With the recent addition of Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers as their primary closer, the Yankees now have a bullpen with considerable depth and upside. Loaisiga strengthens this mix, offering the possibility of another reliable option in high-leverage situations if he avoids further injury setbacks.
The Yankees’ Strategy for Bullpen Success
Loaisiga’s retention is part of a larger strategy under pitching coach Matt Blake, known for getting the most out of pitchers. The Yankees have proven adept at revitalizing struggling or injury-prone pitchers and bringing out their best performance.
Luke Weaver is an example of this approach. Once considered a journeyman, Weaver became a postseason standout, playing a crucial role in the Yankees’ World Series push. The team’s ability to identify and develop high-potential talent has made their bullpen one of their greatest assets.
Betting on Loaisiga’s Recovery
Although Loaisiga’s recent history has been affected by injuries, the Yankees are confident in his ability to bounce back. If he can replicate even a fraction of his 2021 dominance, Loaisiga could become a cornerstone of the Yankees’ bullpen, helping solidify their ability to compete deep into the postseason.
