The Los Angeles Angels have made a bold move by signing veteran reliever Kirby Yates to a one-year, $5MM contract. This move is particularly intriguing given Yates' recent injury history and the Angels' need for reliable relief pitching. But here's where it gets controversial... Is Yates still the reliable closer he once was, or is he a risk worth taking for the Angels?
Yates, a two-time All-Star, has had a remarkable career, particularly in 2019 when he led the NL with 41 saves. However, his performance has been inconsistent due to injuries, which has become a concern for the Angels. In 2020, he only pitched 4 1/3 innings due to bone spurs in his elbow, and he required Tommy John surgery at the end of spring training. From 2020-22, he pitched only 11 1/3 innings in the majors.
Despite these setbacks, the Angels are betting on Yates' track record. They hope that he can provide a much-needed boost to their bullpen, which has lacked consistency and durability. The Angels have already signed other veteran relievers like Robert Stephenson, Jordan Romano, and Drew Pomeranz, but Yates could be the best of the bunch if he stays healthy.
The Angels' decision to sign Yates raises questions about their payroll. With the recent deferral of Anthony Rendon's contract, the Angels are now looking at a payroll significantly lower than the $206MM figure at which they ended the 2025 campaign. This move could be a strategic one, as the Angels look to add talent without breaking the bank.
The Angels' decision to sign Yates is a risky one, but it could pay off if he can stay healthy and provide the team with the reliable relief pitching they need. The question remains: Is Yates still the reliable closer he once was, or is he a risk worth taking for the Angels?
