The New York Yankees have made two pivotal bullpen decisions that signal a sharper focus on reliability and upside heading into the offseason.
The club announced it will exercise the $3 million club option for left-handed reliever Tim Hill for 2026, while it will decline the $5 million option on right-hander Jonathan Loáisiga, making him a free agent.
Hill‘s return gives the Yankees continuity on the left side of their relief corps. The 35-year-old southpaw posted a 4-4 record with a 3.09 ERA across 70 appearances in 2025, totaling 67 innings.
His ground-ball rate, a critical metric for situational relievers, ranked among the best in the majors.
Meanwhile, Loáisiga‘s time in the Bronx comes to an end after recurring injuries and a
diminished role this year. He finished with a 0-1 record, 4.25 ERA, and just 30 appearances.
Exit Loáisiga, secure Hill
Hill‘s steady presence came into sharp relief amid a Yankees relief unit that struggled at times in 2025.
While he may not be the flashiest arm, his left-handed presence and ability to induce weak contact make him an asset.
On the flip side, Loáisiga never fully regained his pre-injury form. His 2025 campaign was hampered by back and elbow problems, limiting him to 29.2 innings with a WHIP of 1.48 and home runs allowed over 2.1 per nine innings.
In a front office that emphasizes value and availability, the decision to part ways was pragmatic if stark.
By declining Loáisiga‘s option, the Yankees free up both payroll dollars and a roster spot heading into a winter where they’ll weigh their starting rotation moves, outfield upgrades, and bullpen reinforcements.
Keeping Hill in place locks in one piece of the puzzle while leaving room for broader changes.
For Loáisiga, the impending open market offers a reset. His 19-12 record and 3.54 ERA over 193 appearances with New York reflect what he once was.
But durability and consistency faltered of late, and other clubs may view him as a reclamation project rather than a high-leverage solution.
From a broader standpoint, the Yankees‘ moves reflect a bullpen pivot. With Hill back, the team already has arms like David Bednar, Camilo Doval, and Fernando Cruz anchoring the right side, and now a dependable left-hander in Hill gives manager Aaron Boone more flexibility.
The right-handed side of the pen still demands attention, but removing uncertainty around Loáisiga is a start.
The Yankees now have a clearer outline for their bullpen breakdown in 2026. Hill locks in the lefty role.
The right side opens up for competition or external additions. Meanwhile, Loáisiga enters the free-agent pool with one foot on his past success and another seeking a fresh start.
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