Yankees Lose Player to Angels on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 2:55 PM ET

The New York Yankees are likely heading into the 2026 MLB season with a group that looks very similar to the one that fell short in the divisional round last year.

Even so, there is still legitimate hope for a deeper postseason run, thanks in large part to the return of right-hander Gerrit Cole and the retention of every major contributor from an offense that finished as one of the most productive units in baseball.

But one glaring weakness remains, and it has only grown more concerning as the offseason has unfolded: the bullpen.

New York has taken noticeable hits in relief depth, with right-handers Luke Weaver and Devin Williams both choosing to head across town to join the New York Mets, leaving the Yankees with far fewer high-leverage options than they had a year ago.

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone (17)© Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

After committing significant money to outfielder Cody Bellinger on a five-year contract, the Yankees’ payroll flexibility tightened considerably. As a result, the front office has shifted its focus to the waiver market in search of low-cost bullpen help.

Earlier in January, New York claimed right-handed reliever Kaleb Ort from the Houston Astros and added him to the 40-man roster. However, as is often the case with waiver claims, Ort’s stay was short-lived.

He was designated for assignment last week after the Yankees claimed outfielder Michael Siani from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The hope was that Ort would clear waivers and be outrighted to Triple-A, giving the organization a depth arm to stash for later in the season.

That plan fell apart on Wednesday when the Los Angeles Angels claimed Ort, officially ending his Yankees tenure before he ever threw a pitch for the organization.

Earlier today, RHP Kaleb Ort was claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Angels.
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) January 28, 2026

It is an unfortunate loss for New York, as Ort would have been a useful depth option given his reliability. Last season with Houston, the 33-year-old veteran posted a 4.89 ERA with 49 strikeouts across 46 innings. While not dominant, he offered enough experience and durability to be a viable reinforcement if injuries hit the bullpen.

With the season approaching and relief depth thinning, the Yankees may need to get creative to stabilize the back end of their staff, especially if they hope to keep pace with the American League’s top contenders.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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