The New York Yankees are riding high this season, leading the American League in several offensive and pitching categories. But even the best teams have their weak spots—and for the Bronx Bombers, it's the bullpen.
While closer David Bednar and high-leverage arms like Camilo Doval, Fernando Cruz, Tim Hill, and Brent Headrick have held things down, the drop-off after that top five has been noticeable. As Chris Kirschner of The Athletic put it: "The Yankees need someone outside that circle of trust to emerge. Otherwise, this group could be in trouble."
The team has been cycling through low-leverage options—Paul Blackburn, Ryan Yarbrough, Jake Bird, and Yerry De Los Santos have all taken their turns. But one name they apparently weren't interested in bringing back: Yoendrys Gomez.
Gomez, now 26, was once a promising prospect in the Yankees' system after signing back in 2017. He made his MLB debut in 2023 and spent parts of three seasons in pinstripes, logging just over 23 innings. But after bouncing around a bit—including a stop with division rival Tampa Bay earlier this season—Gomez has now been traded to the Minnesota Twins, according to Daniel Alvarez-Montes of El Extrabase.
"Gómez was once a notable prospect with the Yankees but he hasn't been able to click in the majors yet," noted Darragh McDonald of MLB Trade Rumors, adding that the right-hander had exhausted his final option years.
For Yankees fans, it's a reminder that even the deepest farm systems can't guarantee every arm will pan out. And for Gomez, it's another chance to find his footing—this time with an American League foe looking to build for the future.
