Yankees linked to rising list of bullpen options ahead of deadline originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The New York Yankees will need more than just hope and duct tape to patch up their bullpen this summer.
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Manager Aaron Boone told reporters this weekend that reliever Jake Cousins is “trending toward” Tommy John surgery, which would end his season before it started. It’s another blow to an already thin relief corps that’s been forced to shuffle pieces around since early April.
Tampa Bay Rays relief pitcher Pete Fairbanks reacts after striking out the side to close the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium.Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
With Luke Weaver sidelined, though hopefully not for much longer, GM Brian Cashman is in a familiar position: shopping for bullpen help as we head toward the trade deadline.
Here are some relievers who could be on the Yankees’ radar:
Pete Fairbanks, Rays
Dominant when healthy, but that’s the catch. Fairbanks owns a 1.88 ERA in 24 innings and is under team control through 2026, but a condition that makes it hard for him to pitch in the cold is a huge red flag. The Rays are on the bubble, but are always willing to trade and buy in these situations.
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Ryan Helsley, Cardinals
Last year’s MLB saves leader with 49, Helsley is under an expiring deal and would be one of the most sought-after closers on the market—if St. Louis is willing to move him.
David Bednar, Pirates
Pitched his way out of a rough start and is now looking like his old self again. An extra year of control makes him expensive but appealing.
Kyle Finnegan, Nationals
The former All-Star leads the league in saves and could be a budget rental with playoff poise.
Kenley Jansen, Angels
Unblemished in save chances (13-for-13) but sporting a career-worst 4.43 ERA. Still, the track record matters.
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Jake Bird, Rockies
The most intriguing under-the-radar option. Bird doesn’t have closing experience, but he’s been nearly unhittable this year (1.49 ERA, 45 K in 36.1 IP) and is under control through 2028.
The Yankees’ front office hasn’t shown urgency—yet. But with Cousins likely lost, reinforcements may need to come sooner than later.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.