Yankees Add Promising Left‑Handed Arm as Ryan Weathers Draws Early Praise From Scouts
The New York Yankees have added a left-handed pitcher for the 2026 season, which has garnered positive feedback from baseball evaluators. During the winter, the Yankees acquired left-handed pitcher Ryan Weathers from the Miami Marlins. The young pitcher is drawing notice for his potential in the rotation.
Weathers should start the season as the Yankees’ fifth starter. His role may be short because veteran starter Carlos Rodón is expected to return from injury in late April or May. After Rodón returns, the Yankees may use Weathers in numerous bullpen pitching scenarios.
Scouts in Major League Baseball noticed the move. One seasoned scout who closely follows the Yankees called the deal a strong front office decision. Weathers has long been considered a talented pitcher, according to the scout. He constantly showed pitching tools that could help him prosper as a starter or reliever in the Marlins system.
Weathers showed both sides of his potential in early spring training. In his first preseason appearance, the left-hander excelled against the Washington Nationals. In three and two-thirds scoreless innings, he struck out five batters and did not allow any walks. The performance showed his power and authority when his command works.
His second attempt was harder. Weathers struggled to minimize hits and runs against the Mets. Over two innings, he allowed six runs, five earned. The rough outing elevated his spring training ERA but also mirrored the early-camp adjustment phase for many pitchers.
Weathers has a 7.94 ERA in five and two-thirds innings in his two spring training starts. In that time, he surrendered eight hits, five earned runs, eight strikeouts, and two walks. Despite uneven results, analysts stress on his promise qualities as a Yankees arm.
Injuries limited Weathers last season. After being sidelined with forearm and lat muscle strains, he only pitched 38 1/3 innings. Despite a lighter workload, he struck out 37 batters with a 3.99 ERA. His fastball averaged 96.8 mph, one of his pitching strengths.
Scouting ratings indicate that Weathers’ long-term success with the Yankees hinges on his strike zone command. He can test major league batters with his power and movement when he delivers strikes and locates his pitches. Scouts feel he can excel as a starting pitcher or high-impact reliever due to his good command.
Weathers gives the Yankees pitching depth and flexibility. While waiting for Rodón’s comeback, Weathers can prove himself in the rotation and show why the team signed him. For 2026, the Yankees may have unearthed a valuable pitcher if he can retain consistency and control.
Sources
Major League Baseball reporting and team coverage of the New York Yankees spring training updates and player evaluations.
