Yankees Consider Weathers for Closer Role Amid Bednar's Struggles

The Yankees defeated the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday.

With Gerrit Cole set to return from Tommy John surgery on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays, the Yankees are considering changes in their pitching staff. Cole will join a rotation currently holding the fourth-best ERA in the majors. Cam Schlittler leads the rotation with the best ERA in baseball during his first full major league season.

David Bednar's struggles as closer, marked by a 5.14 ERA and a 1.62 WHIP, have prompted the Yankees to explore alternatives. In 21 appearances, Bednar has allowed at least one baserunner in 16 games and at least two baserunners in 10.

Ryan Weathers, acquired from the Miami Marlins in a five-player trade in January, is a potential candidate to replace Bednar. Weathers has a 3.58 ERA in nine starts for the Yankees. The Yankees acquired Weathers in a five-player deal with Miami.