When you look at the Yankees’ recent history, there’s no denying that they had some very high quality arms in their bullpen to close the books in the ninth inning. From Mariano Rivera to Aroldis Chapman to Andrew Miller and Dellin Betances, there has been talent that has come to the Bronx.
At the moment, the position appears to be Chapman’s until proven otherwise. Despite his fickleness, he’s Aaron Boone’s right-hand man right now and there’s no sign that’s about to change.
However, if ever the Cuban Missile had to experience failures, there is a designated reliever to take his place: Jonathan Loaisiga.
Because yes, I tend to think like Jeff Nelson (former Yankees reliever): Loaisiga has the makings of a #1 reliever.
Could Jonathan Loaisiga take over for Aroldis Chapman some day? A dynasty-era ex-Yankees reliever thinks so: https://t.co/Mpzncgp5Yl
— Brendan Kuty (@BrendanKutyNJ) March 8, 2022
Quite frankly, if it were up to me, I think I would already put Loaisiga in that chair. His 2021 season was truly outstanding and he was the Yankees’ most reliable reliever last year.
However, I am well aware that this will not happen. But it could happen sooner than you think.
Yes, Johnny Lasagna could replace Chapman this season if the latter experiences failures again. However, in 2023, the chances of seeing Loaisiga become the Yankees’ #1 reliever seem relatively good.
Because yes, Chapman’s contract will expire at the end of the 2022 season. Considering he will be 35 at the start of the 2023 season and the Yankees have several interesting relievers in the bullpen, the possibility of letting him go could be seriously considered.
And when you add to all that that we might want to free up some money for Aaron Judge’s potential next contract, it makes even more sense.
Loaisiga throws a very heavy ball that combines blistering speed (over 100 miles per hour) with very sneaky spin. The rest of his arsenal isn’t necessarily exceptional, but his primary fire is so devastating that the rest just has to be passable to get the job done.
Obviously, the possibility of a regression in 2022 exists for Loaisiga. However, he has such an interesting toolbox that I am sure he will have another big season.
And, who knows, maybe this will be the year he makes his debut as a late game specialist in the Bronx…
