Yankees Avoid Spending Big on Free Agent Relievers

Pinstripes Stick to Proven Approach Despite Talent Exodus

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The New York Yankees, known for their deep pockets, have once again opted not to spend big on free agent relief pitchers this offseason, despite a number of high-profile arms hitting the open market. This has been the team's preferred approach in recent years, as they have generally avoided committing large contracts to bullpen arms.

Why it matters

The Yankees' reluctance to splurge on relievers is a curious strategy given the importance of a strong bullpen in today's game. However, the team has found success in developing and retaining their own homegrown relief talent, rather than overpaying for free agents.

The details

The Yankees did not sign any expensive free agent relievers this offseason, even as top bullpen arms like Liam Hendriks and Kendall Graveman found lucrative deals elsewhere. This has been a consistent pattern for the Yankees, who have generally avoided committing big money to free agent relievers in favor of developing their own bullpen talent.

  • The Yankees did not sign any expensive free agent relievers during the 2026 offseason.

The players

New York Yankees

A professional baseball team based in the Bronx, New York, and a member of the American League East division of Major League Baseball.

Liam Hendriks

A professional baseball pitcher who signed a lucrative free agent contract this offseason.

Kendall Graveman

A professional baseball pitcher who signed a lucrative free agent contract this offseason.

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The takeaway

The Yankees' continued reluctance to spend big on free agent relievers, even as the bullpen market continues to heat up, suggests the team remains committed to its proven strategy of developing and retaining its own homegrown relief talent rather than overpaying for outside help.