The Los Angeles Dodgers are making headlines with their recent signing of Kirby Yates, a move that enhances their bullpen depth. This comes on the heels of their earlier acquisition of Tanner Scott, sparking discussions about the team's strategy to address pitching needs proactively rather than waiting until the trade deadline. Yates, known for his ability to generate strikeouts and a solid performance record, will add significant value as the season progresses.
Despite turning 38 by the start of the season, Yates' performance metrics indicate he remains a formidable force in the bullpen, sitting in the mid-90s with his fastball. His addition is seen as a strategic move by the Dodgers, allowing them to avoid inflated prices in mid-season trades while ensuring they have quality arms ready for high-leverage situations.
With the Dodgers already boasting one of the strongest rosters in baseball, including its starting rotation and lineup, Yates' signing further cements their reputation as serious contenders for the upcoming season. Discussions among analysts suggest that this approach reflects Andrew Friedman's goal of building a reliable and deep pitching staff to withstand the inevitable injuries that occur throughout the season.
