Claimed off of waivers in September of 2023 to make three starts at the end of the season, it’s fair to say that no one expected Luke Weaver to have the impact on the Yankees that he has had thus far this season.
When he was re-signed on a one-year deal with a club option for 2025, it was unknown what his role would be for the Yankees. However, with Clay Holmes’ continued struggles in the closer role, Weaver has stepped into the role and shone.
“I couldn’t see straight,” Weaver said after recording his first career save against the Cubs earlier this month. “I was blacked out for the most part. I was on pure adrenaline, but it was a great time.”
The always quirky Weaver has become known for his positive energy and his happy demeanor. But this season, his silent ascent up the Yankees pecking order became impossible to ignore. And since stepping into the closer role for the first time on Sept. 6, Weaver has been perfect.
In his last seven games, Weaver has pitched 10 innings, allowed three hits,and one unearned run. He has also struck out 22 of the 36 batters he’s faced, making him pretty much unhittable — and this could not come at a better time for a Yankees team desperate for a lockdown closer.
Holmes, who has served as the Yankees closer for the better part of the last two seasons, has been very streaky. In 64 games this year, he recorded 29 saves but has also blown 13, which is by far the most in the majors. Holmes also has a WHIP of over 1.3, which is less than desirable for a closer, especially for a team seeking a deep postseason run.
So far this season, Weaver has a win-loss record of 6-3 and has struck out 101 batters, which
ranks the highest among Yankee relievers. His WHIP is under one at 0.928.
Weaver’s most effective pitch this year has arguably been his cutter. A pitch that, prior to last season, Weaver hadn’t even used since 2020. His cutter has a batting average against of .169, and has been responsible for 22 of his 101 strikeouts.
In order for the Yankees to find glory in October, they will need Weaver to continue to step up in a big way, and if the Yankees find themselves as world champions come November, the surprise resurgence of Weaver could be a big reason why.
