In a decisive move to address mounting concerns over their injury-riddled pitching staff, the New York Yankees have officially signed veteran right-hander Anthony DeSclafani, the team announced this morning. The deal, reported to be a one-year contract with performance-based incentives, comes just days after manager Aaron Boone publicly acknowledged that the Yankees are currently “too banged up” to be serious contenders without reinforcements.
DeSclafani, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the Bronx. Known for his solid control and competitive edge, he most recently pitched for the San Francisco Giants and the Minnesota Twins, though injuries have limited his availability in recent seasons. Still, when healthy, he’s proven capable of eating innings and keeping teams in games — exactly what the Yankees need at the moment.
Boone was candid earlier this week during a postgame interview, stating:
“We’re not where we need to be from a health standpoint, particularly on the mound. If we’re going to compete for a championship, we need depth. We need stability. And we need it now.”
The Yankees are currently without several key pitchers, including starters Gerrit Cole and Clarke Schmidt, both sidelined with significant injuries. DeSclafani is expected to slot into the rotation immediately or serve as a long-relief option depending on how the staff shakes out in the coming days.
In a brief statement, DeSclafani expressed excitement about joining the Yankees organization:
“This is a team with a winning culture, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help them chase a championship. I’m ready to contribute however I can.”
Yankees fans, while cautiously optimistic, see the move as a necessary one. The front office has faced increasing pressure in recent weeks to make adjustments, especially with the AL East tightening up and postseason hopes already beginning to hang in the balance.
As the Bronx Bombers continue to battle adversity, one thing is clear: the Yankees aren’t sitting back. They’re making moves — and Anthony DeSclafani could prove to be a quietly crucial piece down the stretch.
