Update – 9:45 AM: Ryan Yarbrough’s contract guarantees him $2 million, with an additional $500K available in incentives, per ESPN’s Jorge Castillo. Due to the Yankees’ luxury tax status, the total financial impact will be $4.2 million.
Original Report – 9:16 AM: The New York Yankees have reached an agreement with free-agent left-hander Ryan Yarbrough on a major league deal, according to Robert Murray of FanSided. Yarbrough, represented by Excel Sports, recently opted out of a minor league contract with the Blue Jays and was granted his release.
Yarbrough’s Background & Performance
The 33-year-old southpaw is no stranger to the AL East, having spent most of his career with the Tampa Bay Rays from 2018 to 2022. He joined the Toronto Blue Jays midway through the 2024 season after a trade from the Dodgers, delivering strong results. In 31 1/3 innings with Toronto, he posted an impressive 2.01 ERA with a 22.2% strikeout rate and a 6% walk rate.
Yarbrough wrapped up the 2024 season with a career-best 3.19 ERA over 98 2/3 innings, though his 16.3% strikeout rate remained low. Known for his finesse rather than overpowering velocity, his fastball averaged just 86.5 mph last season—down from the 89-90 mph range he showed earlier in his career. Instead, like his new Yankees teammate Tim Hill, Yarbrough relies on an unconventional delivery, pinpoint command, and inducing soft contact (29.4% hard-hit rate).
Role with the Yankees
While Yarbrough’s soft-contact approach can lead to ERA fluctuations, his overall track record is solid. Across 768 big-league innings, he owns a 4.21 ERA with an 18.7% strikeout rate and a 5.5% walk rate. His ability to serve as both a starter and multi-inning reliever makes him a valuable addition to a Yankees pitching staff hit hard by injuries this spring.
Though unlikely to join the starting rotation, Yarbrough provides much-needed depth as a long reliever. His signing likely sends fellow left-hander Brent Headrick to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to begin the season.
Roster Implications
The Yankees will need to clear a 40-man roster spot before officially finalizing Yarbrough’s deal. Given their current injury situation, this shouldn’t be an issue. Gerrit Cole is already on the 60-day IL, and additional candidates—such as Luis Gil (lat strain) and Giancarlo Stanton (tendon injuries in both elbows)—may also require IL placements.
Stay tuned for official confirmation and further roster moves as the Yankees finalize their Opening Day bullpen.
