The New York Yankees now have a new, powerful bullpen option at their disposal after the Chicago Cubs announced that they have designated closer Hector Neris for assignment. According to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, he has already cleared waivers and is now a free agent.

Hector Neris could help the Yankees bullpen in the final phase of the season

Neris, 35, is in his 10th major league season and won the 2022 World Series with the Houston Astros. This year was his first with the Cubs, and he has struggled. In 44 innings pitched, he posted a 3.89 ERA and a 1.52 WHIP. He also has five blown saves and 26 walks.

Since June 15, his numbers have looked a little better, as he has struck out 27.2% of the batters he faced and has a 3.44 ERA during that span. His performances could be important for the Yankees, as they desperately need reinforcements in the bullpen, even after Mark Leiter Jr. arrived from the Cubs at the trade deadline. Over the last seven games, Yankees relievers have posted a 5.47 ERA and opponents are batting .292 against them.

The Yankees have a problem in the bullpen area

New York also has a problem at the closer position, as All-Star Clay Holmes has blown 10 saves this season, the most by any pitcher this year and the most by a Yankee since Dave Righetti blew 13 saves in 1987. Neris could give them a much-needed, powerful setup arm that could also decide some games if Holmes continues to struggle.

Currently, their main relievers are Luke Weaver, Tommy Kahnle, and more recently Jake Cousins. Those guys have pitched well for most of the season, but the Yankees may want a pitcher who is used to pitching late in games in the postseason, and Neris fits that criteria.

There is currently nothing to suggest that the Yankees and Neris are close to a deal, but it would make a lot of sense for them to try to sign him for the rest of the season, as he could provide a major boost to their bullpen as the current group struggles into the final month of the season.