The New York Yankees are entering the season with most of their roster set, save for a few spots in the bullpen. While fans might feel uneasy about the open positions, the team is banking on a few key players to step up.
Last season, Devin Williams and Luke Weaver were the go-to set-up man and closer, but things didn’t pan out as hoped. Instead of sticking with them, the Yankees are rolling the dice with a fresh bullpen lineup.
Robert Suarez was a tempting option this offseason, signing with the Braves for $15 million a year, but the Yankees decided to go another route. They’re placing their bets on David Bednar to close, supported by Camilo Doval and Fernando Cruz.
The bullpen is ripe for someone to emerge as a reliable eighth-inning option, especially when Doval and Cruz need a rest.
Enter Jake Bird, a name that might stir mixed memories. Last season, Bird had a rocky moment with a memorable home run allowed during the Miami Meltdown, followed by a brief redemption before being sent back to Triple-A. That was the last we saw of him in the majors.
This spring, Bird is quietly making a case for himself. He’s aiming for one of those final bullpen spots, not as a star but as a solid contributor.
His revamped pitching arsenal, including a new cutter and sinker, is starting to pay off. In his first two spring appearances, Bird has struck out three, allowed only two hits, and issued no walks.
It’s early, but his stock is on the rise.
The competition for the bullpen is fierce. Brent Headrick is a familiar face, and Rule 5 pick Cade Winquest has a slight edge due to his roster requirements.
Then there’s Rafael Montero, a World Series champion with the Astros, and Dylan Coleman, known for his 100 MPH fastball. Bird faces an uphill battle, but he’s in the mix and making his presence felt.
Even with his solid outings, Bird hasn’t escaped the spotlight’s quirks, like the occasional pun-filled camera cut. But if that’s the price for success, it’s one he seems willing to pay. The Yankees are counting on someone to rise to the occasion, and Bird just might be that guy.