The evolution of a modern bullpen can often feel like a high-stakes scavenger hunt, and the New York Yankees' Brian Cashman is a master at finding those hidden gems. Earlier this year, he set his sights on Colorado and brought in a promising young arm, 23-year-old right-handed reliever Angel Chivilli, in exchange for minor league first baseman T.J. Rumfield.
On paper, this move was classic Cashman-swapping a blocked corner infielder for a pitcher with the kind of raw talent that makes coaches dream big.
The Allure of Elite Velocity
Cashman was drawn to Chivilli’s impressive arsenal and fastball velocity. It’s easy to see why.
Chivilli averaged 97.1 mph last year, landing him in the 88th percentile, and he pairs that heat with a changeup and slider that leave batters swinging at air. When a pitcher can flirt with triple digits and boasts two breaking balls with whiff rates over 40 percent, you don’t hesitate-you bring him to the Bronx.
Chivilli arrived as a potential bullpen weapon, an exciting project for pitching coach Matt Blake.
A Turbulent Spring Training
The trade made sense, but Chivilli’s Grapefruit League performance has been rocky, possibly jeopardizing his spot on the Opening Day roster. Spring training stats can be deceptive, but Chivilli’s numbers have been a whirlwind.
With a 14.85 ERA over 6.2 innings and a 1.95 WHIP, it’s been a rough ride. It’s like having a sports car that looks great in the garage but struggles on the open road. The velocity is there, but the execution is scattered, leading to basepath traffic and early exits.
The Roster Crunch in Tampa
There are bright spots, though. Chivilli has struck out 10 batters, showing that his “stuff” is still effective when he hits the zone. But consistency is lacking.
It would be surprising if the Yankees take him to San Francisco for the opener, especially with pitchers like Cade Winquest, Jake Bird, and others outperforming him. In the end, reliability often wins out over potential, and the Yankees need dependable arms right now.
Future Outlook and Patience
Is Chivilli a lost cause? Far from it. You don’t give up on a pitcher with elite velocity and breaking balls that miss bats just because of a tough spring.
If he doesn’t make the roster, he’ll have the chance to refine his fastball shape and command in the minors. Think of him as a rough-cut gemstone-his value is undeniable, but he needs more polishing.
With patience, the Yankees could see huge benefits from Chivilli in the future. Keep an eye on him; he’s definitely one to watch.