In a much-needed move to stabilize their depleted starting rotation, the New York Yankees have signed free agent right-hander Spencer Turnbull to a two-year deal reportedly worth $8.8 million, according to league sources. The 32-year-old veteran, who spent the 2024 season with the Philadelphia Phillies, brings a mix of experience and upside to a Yankees staff that has been ravaged by injuries early in the 2025 campaign.
Turnbull, who threw a no-hitter for the Detroit Tigers in 2021, is looking to re-establish himself as a full-time starter after battling injuries the past few seasons. He missed all of 2022 following Tommy John surgery and dealt with a neck issue in 2023, but bounced back nicely in 2024. In 17 appearances with the Phillies — including seven starts — Turnbull posted a strong 2.65 ERA with 58 strikeouts in 54 1/3 innings.
The Yankees’ rotation has been held together with patchwork solutions in the absence of stars Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, all of whom are currently sidelined. With top prospect Chase Hampton also out for the year due to Tommy John surgery, the team has been forced to rely on underperforming veterans like Carlos Carrasco and untested arms such as Will Warren.
Spencer Turnbull.
General Manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the need for reinforcements after the team’s series in Detroit. “We’ve been hit hard by injuries, and we needed someone who could step in right away and give us quality innings. Spencer has shown he can do that, and we’re excited to see what he brings to the table,” Cashman said during a press conference Thursday.
Turnbull is expected to join the Yankees’ rotation immediately, possibly making his first start during their upcoming home stand at Yankee Stadium. His signing was praised by analysts and fans alike, many of whom had questioned why a pitcher of his caliber was still available while struggling veterans remained in key roles around the league.
For Turnbull, the deal represents both a fresh start and a chance to prove he can still be an impact pitcher in a high-pressure environment. “I’ve always admired the Yankees from afar, and I’m ready for this opportunity,” Turnbull said in a team statement. “I know what I’m capable of when healthy, and I’m looking forward to helping this team win games.”
