Kirby Yates Joins Dodgers, Bolstering the Team’s Elite Relief Corps
Kirby Yates has successfully passed his physical and inked a one-year pact with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This move marks a significant step in the team’s relentless pursuit of excellence, especially as they add the veteran to their already formidable bullpen. The agreement includes a guaranteed $13 million and a potential $1 million in bonuses, contingent on his appearances.
The Deal Details
Yates’ deal with the Dodgers comes with a guaranteed annual salary of $13 million. He could earn an additional $500,000 if he appears in 50 games and another $500,000 if he reaches 55 games. The contract showcases the Dodgers’ confidence in his ability to contribute effectively to the team’s overall success.
Bigger Picture: Dodgers’ Offseason Moves
This latest acquisition highlights the Dodgers’ aggressive approach during the off-season. They have already signed Tanner Scott to a four-year deal worth $72 million, making them a formidable force in the league. Additionally, they retained Blake Treinen on a two-year deal. Yates’ addition ensures a strong and deep relief corps, alongside other key players like Michael Kopech, Evan Phillips, and Alex Vesia.
Scott and Yates were considered two of the top free agent relievers entering the market. While Scott secured a longer contract, Yates brings his experience and recent success to the table. Here, he can potentially provide the kind of stability that the Dodgers are aiming for, especially following a successful 2023 season.
Kirby Yates’ Background and Recent Performance
Yates, 37 (turning 38 in March), delivered a standout performance in the 2023 season with the Texas Rangers, posting a 1.17 ERA while striking out nearly 36% of batters faced. His impressive track record includes leading MLB with 41 saves in 2019 while maintaining a 1.19 ERA. Despite injury setbacks from 2021 to 2023, Yates showed resilience, throwing 60 1/3 innings of 3.28 ERA ball in 2023 before rejoining the Rangers.
The 2023 season demonstrated that Yates remains a valuable commodity in baseball. Not only did he finish second behind Emmanuel Clase in ERA among relievers with 50+ innings, but he also ranked seventh in strikeout percentage. Opponents struggled with his 93 MPH fastball and mid-80s splitter, two pitches that have formed the backbone of his arsenal.
The Impact on Dodgers’ Payroll
The Dodgers are currently deep in the highest luxury tax tier, with a projected payroll around $382 million. Adding Yates means they will incur a significant luxury tax, expecting to invest $27.3 million on a one-year deal to secure his services. Given the team’s plan to run a six-man rotation, management will need to manage their bullpen carefully, potentially trading or DFAing players like Anthony Banda or Ryan Brasier.
Future of the Dodgers’ Bullpen
With Scott, Yates, Treinen, Kopech, Phillips, and Vesia likely securing key spots, the competition for the seventh bullpen role becomes intense. Both Banda and Brasier cannot be optioned, raising the likelihood that one will be displaced. Recent reports suggest the Dodgers are actively considering trading Brasier to mitigate the run-up of their roster.
Conclusion
Yates’ signing exemplifies the Dodgers’ dedication to fielding one of the best relief corps in Major League Baseball. With a combination of established veterans and talented young prospects, the team is primed for success. As they prepare for the upcoming season, the dynamic of their bullpen will be a key area to watch.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this blockbuster signing. What do you think about the Dodgers’ strategy, and who do you believe will be the Dodgers’ starting nine?
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