If you were concerned about keeping track of every dollar the New York Yankees planned to spend this offseason, especially with one particular deal shrouded in secrecy, there’s no need to worry any longer!
It turns out the Yankees have offloaded around $3.62 million of Jose Trevino’s final arbitration year, instead taking on a $5 million commitment for reliever Jonathan Loaisiga. Loaisiga, once a key part of the bullpen, is returning from injury after undergoing an internal brace procedure. He’s expected back by late April or May, depending on how his rehab goes, after being sidelined just three games into the 2024 season (a year that also happened to be his walk year).
This move could work out in the Yankees’ favor, as long as they don’t rely on Loaisiga for high-leverage spots like the seventh or eighth inning. If they treat him as a valuable, but supplementary piece, it’s a solid addition of a familiar face. With Devin Williams and Fernando Cruz also bolstering the bullpen, the Yankees’ depth is looking stronger.
Jonathan Loaisiga
Price matters too, and Jon Heyman finally revealed the full details of Loaisiga’s contract on Tuesday, which seem quite reasonable. Before the Winter Meetings, the Yankees were reportedly in competition with the Mets for Loaisiga’s services, with rumors circulating that Steve Cohen was close to offering a three-year, $27 million deal. However, Loaisiga ultimately chose the Yankees, signing a one-year, $5 million deal ($4.5 million salary, $500,000 signing bonus), with a club option for $5 million in 2026. The contract also includes performance-based incentives based on innings pitched, meaning Loaisiga could earn more if he stays healthy.
Loaisiga isn’t known for generating a lot of strikeouts; his 100 MPH fastball leads to a surprising amount of contact, though most of it is weak. While he may not have a full season to prove himself, the Yankees are hoping he can justify their modest investment with a solid performance behind the team’s revamped defense.
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