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Yankees Demote Jake Bird and Weigh Closer Role Shift After Bullpen Setbacks

Aaron Boone has left Devin Williams’s future as closer open during New York’s search for another high-leverage arm

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Jose Altuve celebrates with Jesús Sánchez after staking the Astros to a first-inning lead, one they wouldn't relinquish in Tuesday's 7-3 win at Miami.

Overview

  • The Yankees optioned right-hander Jake Bird to Triple-A Scranton after he surrendered a walk-off homer and posted a 27.00 ERA in three appearances
  • Manager Aaron Boone declined to rule out replacing Devin Williams in the closer role following consecutive blown saves and a season ERA above 5.00
  • Deadline acquisitions David Bednar and Camilo Doval have also struggled in their first Yankees outings, extending late-inning instability
  • Reports indicate the Yankees are targeting Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley as they seek additional bullpen reinforcement
  • New York has fallen to third place in the AL East and views stabilizing its back end as essential to closing the divisional gap