Tommy Kahnle, a 35-year-old right-handed reliever for the New York Yankees, is a perfect example of how many relievers find their best form later in their careers. Despite battling injuries, Kahnle has managed to stay competitive well into his thirties and put together an impressive 2024 season.
Over 42.2 innings in the regular season, he posted a solid 2.11 ERA, and his performance in the postseason was also noteworthy. He delivered a 2.08 ERA across 8.2 innings in October, though his one poor outing in Game 5 of the World Series tarnished his otherwise stellar playoff run.
Despite that rough Game 5, where Kahnle struggled in the eighth inning, the Yankees are reportedly interested in bringing him back for the 2025 season. The team recognizes that, aside from that one mishap, Kahnle’s overall 2024 performance was exceptional, and they see value in having him as part of their bullpen for another shot at the championship.
There is reportedly mutual interest in a reunion, as both Kahnle and the Yankees are eager to continue their relationship. The Yankees are planning to bolster their bullpen with a mix of returning players and potential new additions, including Luke Weaver, Ian Hamilton, Jake Cousins, and Mark Leiter Jr., while Clay Holmes is likely moving on. Additionally, the Yankees will likely attempt to re-sign Tim Hill and Jonathan Loaisiga.
Kahnle, who expressed a desire to finish his career with the Yankees after the World Series, could be an important piece of their bullpen in 2025, with both sides looking to make a deal. Whether Kahnle will get the opportunity to fulfill his wish of finishing his career in New York remains to be seen, but the possibility of a return is very much on the table.
