Luke Weaver 'Likely' Takes Over as the Yankees' Closer Again

Weaver has delivered 13 scoreless innings with just three hits allowed and 11 strikeouts. Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Sunday morning before a doubleheader with the Blue Jays at the Stadium that he would use 'likely' Weaver and others as the closer while Williams works to straighten himself out.

Weaver’s performance has earned him trust in high-leverage situations, and he previously excelled in the closer role when Clay Holmes struggled. In the postseason, Weaver recorded a 1.79 ERA over 15.1 innings with four saves in the playoffs when asked to pitch in the ninth inning. 

This transition comes as Williams, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers during the offseason, has been terrible.

In 10 appearances, Williams has posted an 11.25 ERA, allowing 12 runs on 12 hits and issuing seven walks. His signature "Airbender" changeup has decreased effectiveness, with a whiff rate dropping to 22.4% and a strikeout rate down to 16.7%, compared to 48.8% and 51.2%, respectively, in 2024.

The tipping point came on Friday night when Williams failed to record an out against the Blue Jays, surrendering a two-run double to Alejandro Kirk that led to a 4-2 loss. This performance prompted vicious boos from the Yankee Stadium crowd and raised questions about his role moving forward.

Boone emphasized that the decision aims to help Williams regain his form by relieving him from ninth-inning duties temporarily. The Yankees hope this adjustment will bolster their bullpen's performance as they navigate a competitive American League East.

Weaver’s reliability offers the team a much-needed anchor at the back end of games.