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Yankees' Pitching Factory is Attempting Another Miracle
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- Yankees' Pitching Factory is Attempting Another Miracle
(Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images)
There aren't many teams in baseball better than the New York Yankees at developing pitching, especially when it comes to reclamation projects.
Luke Weaver . Paul Blackburn . Tim Hill . Brent Headrick . The list goes on and on.
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Well, it seems like the Yankees are trying their hand at another miracle with just over a month remaining in the regular season, as they have signed relief pitcher Eli Morgan on a minor-league contract.
Now, it's entirely possible that Morgan never sees the light of day in pinstripes this season. But with New York 's bullpen being so taxed, the Yankees may look to utilize him.
Morgan pitched in 16 games for the Kansas City Royals this season, logging a 5.12 ERA and 1.707 WHIP. Unsightly numbers, for sure. He also was horrible in a brief stint with the Chicago Cubs last year.
But there is reason to believe that Morgan can turn things around in the Bronx.
Eli Morgan. Credit: Jim Cowsert-Imagn Images.
The right-hander owns a lifetime 4.25 ERA and 1.225 WHIP since entering the big leagues in 2021, which is at least not hideous. And with the Cleveland Guardians in 2024, he posted a 1.93 ERA and 0.976 WHIP. The year prior, he racked up 75 strikeouts over 67.1 innings.
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So maybe there is something there?
Morgan has dealt with some injury issues in the past, but nothing too major. At least nothing too bad where he would lose his stuff.
It's also worth noting that in 22 appearances with the Royals' Triple-A affiliate this season, he pitched to the tune of a 1.40 ERA to go along with a 12.3 K/9. It was the minor leagues, sure, and the 5.3 BB/9 rate was alarming, but there are some things to like about Morgan.
The Yankees are known for rehabilitating pitchers, especially of the bullpen variety. And with New York concerned about Headrick's workload and after having not added any relievers at the deadline, perhaps Morgan could play a role down the stretch.
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Usually, the Yankees don't just make moves for the sake of minor-league depth; there is typically an end goal, and it's entirely possible New York views Morgan as a potential option to use as we get closer to the playoffs.
