Yankees Prepare for Roster Overhaul with Non-Tender Decisions Looming
As the New York Yankees look ahead to the 2026 season, a significant roster shake-up is on the horizon. With ten players set to come off the books, the team is poised to make some tough decisions, particularly regarding ineffective pitchers. This move could clear approximately $69.5 million in payroll, allowing the organization to reshape its future.
Financial Flexibility with Departing Contracts
Among the names expected to exit is Cody Bellinger, who will opt out following a standout season in the Bronx. Conversely, Aaron Hicks has been absent from the roster for multiple seasons. The impending financial relief opens up opportunities for the Yankees to refocus their strategy and make necessary adjustments as they aim to return to contention.
Non-Tender Candidates Under Scrutiny
The Yankees are also eyeing several relievers who have struggled throughout the season. According to reports, Chris Kirschner identified a few key non-tender candidates, including Leiter, Cousins, Hamilton, and Effross.
Leiter, once a promising addition, finished the season on the sidelines for the American League Division Series after a disappointing performance following a leg injury. His last 18 appearances yielded a mere 13.1% strikeout rate, prompting questions about his long-term viability with the team.
Cousins and Hamilton were initially seen as valuable assets, having emerged from relative obscurity in recent years. Hamilton, who dazzled with his slambio pitch in 2023, has struggled to recapture that form. Although he was a bright spot in a challenging season, inconsistencies have plagued his performance since.
Cousins: A Mixed Legacy
Cousins might represent the most significant potential loss among those considered for non-tendering. He had pivotal moments during the Yankees’ 2024 World Series run, particularly in the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians. However, inconsistency marred his contributions, as evidenced by allowing earned runs in half of his six outings.
Disappointments and Unfulfilled Potential
The disappointments of Leiter and Effross weigh heavily on the Yankees’ decision-making process. Both pitchers were acquired from the Chicago Cubs but have yet to demonstrate their worth in the Bronx. Effross’s injury after the trade hindered his impact, while Leiter’s struggles have been even more pronounced, with 38 earned runs allowed over 70 innings since joining the team.
Despite his lackluster performance, Leiter’s peripheral statistics offer a glimmer of hope. He induces a high volume of soft contact, with an average exit velocity of 87.2 MPH and a low hard-hit rate of 33.3%. While his 4.84 ERA is concerning, a more favorable expected ERA of 3.67 suggests he may have been the victim of bad luck, prompting the Yankees to consider retaining him as they evaluate their options.
As the Yankees weigh their next steps, the pressure to make smart, calculated decisions looms large. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the team’s direction as they attempt to revitalize their roster for future success.
