As the 2025 spring training season drew to a close, the New York Yankees made a strategic move to bolster their depleted pitching staff. Left-handed pitcher Ryan Yarbrough, previously informed by the Toronto Blue Jays that he would not make their roster, opted out of his contract and quickly struck a deal with the Yankees for the upcoming season.
With notable pitchers Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman sidelined due to injuries, acquiring Yarbrough was crucial for the team, particularly in the first half of the season. Initially coming out of the bullpen, Yarbrough transitioned to a starting role by May and June, where he performed solidly in eight starts. One highlight of his performance was his six-inning outing against the World Series champion Dodgers on June 1, where he allowed only one run, saving the Yankees from a potential disaster.
However, Yarbrough’s season took a turn when he suffered a bad oblique injury in mid-June, sidelining him until September. By the time he was healthy, the team’s pitching had stabilized, limiting his opportunities. Despite this, the Yankees recognized Yarbrough’s contributions and are reportedly on the verge of re-signing him for the 2026 season, according to sources including FanSided reporter Robert Murray and Ken Rosenthal from The Athletic.
This one-year major league contract is seen as a pragmatic depth move as the Yankees navigate their pitching challenges. With Cole’s recovery from Tommy John surgery not projected to be complete by Opening Day, and Carlos Rodón expected to start the season on the injured list following elbow surgery, Yarbrough’s return ensures the team has an experienced option, either as a back-end starter or in long relief.
As the Yankees head into the 2026 season, the return of Yarbrough can be viewed as a sensible decision that provides much-needed stability to a struggling pitching lineup. The team’s focus on practical moves during the offseason, rather than seeking big-name signings, could set a positive tone for a more resilient squad moving forward. Welcome back, Ryan Yarbrough.