The New York Yankees have been, by large, the top team scouting for almost every free agency talent. And given their roster demand for the coming season, it is expected of a team inclined towards an uncompromised winning approach.
Recently, the Bronx Bombers were also the top pursuit when Max Scherzer was pitching during the session. This comes amid the Yankees eyeing free agency as part of their roster considerations for the upcoming season. As reported by Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated, other than the New York Mets, the Yankees were present during Scherzer’s throwing session.
The 40-year-old free agent recently held a pro day at Cressey Sports Performance in Florida, where at least eight teams, including both New York clubs, were present to evaluate his progress. Despite the challenges posed by injuries over the past two seasons, Scherzer remains optimistic about his ability to contribute at a high level.
Yankees scouts were among those present as Max Scherzer threw in front of teams earlier this week, per @ragazzoreport
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) January 24, 2025
Scouts reportedly liked what they saw pic.twitter.com/gMJ81H8O36
Although, teams are rightfully cautious regarding Scherzer’s durability, given he has only reached the milestone of 30 starts in one season since 2019. However, the demand for starting pitching is high, and Scherzer’s track record speaks volumes. He has a respectable 3.57 ERA and 93 strikeouts in 17 appearances last season to back him up. With a career that boasts 216 wins and a noteworthy legacy that includes multiple Cy Young awards, any team that secures Scherzer would be adding a seasoned veteran.
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The Yankees Are Targeting Tyler Matzek Next
The New York Yankees are keeping a hungry for all approach while looking to strengthen their bullpen. With what we learnt, NY is interested in free-agent left-handed reliever Tyler Matzek. Despite having made significant additions, including acquiring Devin Williams and bringing in Michael Arias, the Yankees currently lack a lefty in their bullpen after the exits of Nestor Cortes and Tim Hill.
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Matzek, who has had a challenging recovery from Tommy John surgery, is showing flashes of a positive return. He had an optimal time in a recent throwing session that caught the attention of scouts from several contending teams, including the Yankees.
Scouts who watched free agent lefty reliever Tyler Matzek’s bullpen in Irvine, Cali yesterday felt he looked strong and healthy
— Pat Ragazzo (@ragazzoreport) January 24, 2025
Could be an MLB bullpen option for teams. Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, Phillies among those who attended and fit
At 34 years old, Matzek carries some risk due to his injury history, having missed the entire 2023 season. Additionally, he only managed 10 innings in 2024 with the Braves, where he struggled with a 9.90 ERA. However, his career numbers, which feature a respectable 3.72 ERA over 285.1 innings, could help him only if he’s healthy.
The Yankees must weigh this risk against the relatively thin supply of left-handed options available on the market. With several other teams also showing interest in Matzek, the Yankees may need to act quickly if they want to secure his services as part of their push for a competitive bullpen.
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