The New York Yankees are continuing to search for answers in an overworked bullpen, claiming right-hander John Schreiber off waivers from the Kansas City Royals on Monday.
The Yankees will take on approximately $600,000 remaining on Schreiber’s contract for the season. Because the move was completed before September 1, Schreiber also remains eligible for the postseason should New York keep him on its roster.
Schreiber, 32, has appeared in 55 games for Kansas City this season, posting a 3.65 earned run average. However, his underlying numbers have been less encouraging, including an 18 percent strikeout rate and an 11 percent walk rate.
There is one particularly intriguing aspect of Schreiber’s profile for the Yankees. He has been highly effective against right-handed hitters, limiting them to a .143 batting average and a .414 on-base plus slugging percentage. Left-handed hitters, meanwhile, have hit .326 with a 1.024 on-base plus slugging percentage against him.
The move comes as the Yankees try to manage a bullpen that has taken a beating in recent weeks. Fernando Cruz, Angel Chivilli, and Ryan Weathers have all dealt with injuries, while David Bednar, Brent Headrick and Paul Blackburn have shouldered significant workloads. Headrick entered Monday having appeared in 70 games, second-most in the major leagues.
New York has also added Michael Fulmer and Justin Topa recently while calling up Luis Gil on Sunday after transitioning the former starter into a relief role. Clarke Schmidt is another potential option as he continues his rehabilitation assignment with the possibility of joining the bullpen in September.
The Yankees have found useful relievers late in recent seasons, including Paul Blackburn, Tim Hill, and Luke Weaver. Schreiber now gets an opportunity to become the latest reclamation project to strengthen New York’s pitching staff for the postseason push.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.