The 2015 World Series was a referendum on the importance of bullpens. The Royals, with Wade Davis serving as the closer for injured right-hander Greg Holland, slammed the door repeatedly on opponents, despite spending the majority of the year as a setup man. Meanwhile, Mets closer Jeurys Familia faltered in the Fall Classic, and the lack of quality arms around him proved costly.
This has created a bizarre scenario this offseason. Bullpen arms are coveted, and yet, the return on those arms seems so high that most clubs are putting their premium relievers for sale. The Yankees had one of MLB’s best bullpens last season with right-hander Dellin Betances serving as a multi-inning fireman, while left-hander Andrew Miller slammed the door. General manager Brian Cashman has said that the team would entertain offers for Miller this winter, however, perhaps recognizing the chance at a potential windfall.
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Another reason the Yankees may be willing to part with Miller, is the possibility of adequately replacing him on the cheap. With other premier relievers like Aroldis Chapman and Craig Kimbrel reportedly for sale, the market on free agent closers is being depressed according to CBS. Jon Heyman speculated the Yankees would likely expect a frontline starter such as Stephen Strasburg in return for Miller; if so, they could then turn around and ink a pitcher like Darren O’Day for cheaper than Miller and remain strong in the ‘pen while upgrading the rotation.
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There are a number of quality arms in free agency, but few with track records in the ninth inning, or a great deal of recent success. O’Day leads the pack, with Tyler Clippard, Joakim Soria, Fernando Rodney and Neftali Feliz checking in behind him. The Yankees could opt to sign one of them, and simply shift Betances into the full-time closer role.
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