Via Joel Sherman: The Yankees are looking to add a late-inning reliever to either replace David Robertson in the eighth inning or take over as closer if Robertson doesn’t run away with the job. “I definitely need to improve the bullpen and provide as many arms out there for [Joe Girardi] to choose from,” said Brian Cashman to Andy McCullough earlier this week. “I’m definitely interested in exploring all available options that would improve the pen, from the left and right side.”
At the moment, the only locks for next year’s bullpen are Robertson and Shawn Kelley. Adam Warren and David Phelps could also be in the mix depending on how the rotation shakes out. Both Dellin Betances and David Huff are out of minor league options and will get chances to win jobs in camp. Other guys like Preston Claiborne and Cesar Cabral will be in the mix, but they can be sent to Triple-A if need be. Relievers are the riskiest investments in baseball, but I think the need for another veteran late-inning guy is pretty obvious. The Yankees have already been connected to Grant Balfour and could also target free agents like Jesse Crain and Jose Veras. Sherman speculates the rehabbing Joel Hanrahan could be a possibility.
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