This offseason’s free-agent class has been rich with bullpen arms. One of the most notable signings was former Yankees closer Clay Holmes, who inked a three-year, $38 million deal with the New York Mets. However, several prominent names are still available, including All-Star lefty closer Tanner Scott.
Scott, who split the 2024 season between the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres, posted a 32.7% swing-and-miss rate, ranking him in the 92nd percentile among all Major League pitchers. The relief market also features future Hall of Famer Kenley Jansen, who became one of only eight relievers to surpass 400 career saves, finishing the 2024 season with 447, placing him fourth all-time.
Yet, amid these big names, one sleeper is attracting attention, including from the New York Yankees. According to Jeff Dahdah of Last Word on Sports, the Yankees are likely targeting 34-year-old Andrew Kittredge, a former St. Louis Cardinals reliever, to bolster their bullpen depth.
Kittredge’s performance, which compares favorably to some of the most recognized relievers in the game, makes him a cost-effective option for teams in need of bullpen help. After earning $2.63 million from the Cardinals last season, Kittredge is projected to land a contract around $5.5 million for one year, based on his market value and the deals signed by similar relievers last offseason.
Kittredge had an All-Star caliber season for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2021, posting a 1.88 ERA with 77 strikeouts in 71 2/3 innings. His 2024 numbers also stack up well against Jansen’s. While Kittredge only recorded one save (compared to Jansen’s 27), his 2.8 ERA was significantly better than Jansen’s 3.29, and his WAR of 1.5 outpaced Jansen’s 1.3. Kittredge also proved to be more durable, throwing 70 2/3 innings over 74 appearances, while Jansen appeared in 54 games, logging 54 2/3 innings. Kittredge’s walk rate was also superior, at 7% compared to Jansen’s 9.2%.
As the market for mid-tier relievers heats up, Kittredge is expected to draw interest from contenders, including the Yankees. However, as Dahdah notes, Kittredge, an eight-year veteran, is likely to consider multiple offers before finalizing his decision for 2025.
