$10M Betrayal? Yankees Pitcher Sparks Rumors of Rival Switch

With spring training just weeks away, several talented players remain unsigned in free agency, including a few former New York Yankees. 

Yankees Trade Away 26-Year-Old Prospect to Hated Rival - Heavy Sports

This offseason, the Yankees strengthened their bullpen by trading for Devin Williams and Fernando Cruz, leaving fan-favorite Tommy Kahnle waiting to determine his next move. While a return to the Bronx remains a possibility, Kahnle might seek a new team sooner rather than later.

According to Drew VonScio of Newsweek, the Houston Astros could emerge as a potential landing spot for the right-hander.

“Although Kahnle will turn 36 in August, he’s shown no signs of slowing down as a reliever. A pitcher who consistently strikes out batters while inducing weak contact from those who don’t is exactly what the Astros need,” VonScio wrote. “His postseason experience also makes him an even bigger asset for a team like Houston, which is aiming for another World Series run.”

The Yankees already boast a strong group of right-handers in their bullpen, making it more likely they prioritize adding left-handed depth over bringing Kahnle back. However, Kahnle’s devastating changeup makes him particularly effective against left-handed batters. In fact, during the 2024 season, he excelled against lefties, holding them to a .575 OPS and a .218 batting average.

Spotrac projects Kahnle to land a two-year deal worth $10.7 million.

If Kahnle were to sign with the Astros, it would deal a significant blow to the Yankees, as Houston is likely their biggest obstacle in the race for the American League pennant in 2025. Regardless, it highlights the Yankees’ need to add left-handed bullpen depth before spring training begins.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*