The Rationale
Unlike the Orioles and Cubs, the Yankees have no doubts about their closer. Clay Holmes has been one of the best relievers since joining the team in 2021 and is off to another great start in 2024. New York’s bullpen leads MLB in saves and is second in ERA.
However, the Yankees are under immense pressure to win now. Juan Soto becomes a free agent at the end of the season, and Aaron Judge, now over 30, won't be a superstar forever. Additionally, chairman Hal Steinbrenner has stated that the team's current payroll is unsustainable. The Yankees of 2025 and beyond might not be as competitive as they are now.
Given these factors, it's easy to see why the Yankees would go all-in for Miller. Acquiring him wouldn’t just add one of the best closers in baseball to their roster—it would also prevent division rivals from getting him.
Although New York’s farm system isn't as strong as Baltimore’s or Chicago’s, the Yankees have the talent to assemble a competitive package for Miller and might be more driven than any other team to make it happen.
This post by Leo Morgenstern appeared first on Just Baseball.
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