Arizona Diamondbacks Weigh Free Agency Option: Kirby Yates
As the Arizona Diamondbacks head into the 2025 MLB season, they are actively searching for a closer to strengthen their bullpen, particularly with the likely departure of former closer Paul Sewald. Among the potential free-agent options, one intriguing name is Kirby Yates, a veteran reliever who has revitalized his career after overcoming injuries and setbacks.
Revival of a Career
Kirby Yates, now 37 years old, enters the 2025 season after a remarkable comeback. Once an elite closer for the San Diego Padres, Yates’ career took a downturn following injuries that sidelined him for the entire 2021 season. A subsequent stint with the Atlanta Braves in 2023 yielded modest results, with a 3.28 ERA, far from his career-best performance in 2019 when he posted a 1.19 ERA and placed ninth in Cy Young voting.
However, 2024 marked a turning point. With the Texas Rangers, Yates delivered a stellar season, recording a 1.17 ERA over 61.2 innings. This resurgence has propelled him back into the spotlight as one of the top relievers on the free-agent market. For a Diamondbacks team seeking stability and leadership in the bullpen, Yates is an appealing candidate.
Pros of Signing Kirby Yates
- Closing Experience
Yates brings a wealth of experience to the closer role, with 95 career saves, including 33 in 2024 — his second-highest single-season total. Arizona’s General Manager, Mike Hazen, has emphasized the importance of adding a closer with experience to complement existing relievers like A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez. While both have the talent to handle closing duties, Yates’ proven track record would provide reliability in high-pressure situations and allow others to excel in setup roles. - Strikeout Ability
Despite his age, Yates remains effective at striking out batters. In 2024, he recorded 12.4 strikeouts per nine innings, aligning with his early career numbers. Strikeouts are particularly valuable for closers, as they reduce the chances of defensive mishaps and keep control in the pitcher’s hands. Additionally, Yates improved his control, lowering his walk total to 28 from a career-high 37 with Atlanta. His improved strikeout-to-walk ratio of 3.04 highlights his ability to limit free passes while maintaining dominance.
Potential Concerns
- Age
At 38, Yates is entering the twilight of his career, and age inevitably raises questions about sustainability. While his 2024 performance was outstanding, the risk of regression looms, as older players often face declines in velocity and durability. - Injury History
Yates’ past includes significant health challenges, notably Tommy John surgery in 2021. Although he has successfully returned to form, the combination of his injury history and advancing age presents a potential risk. The Diamondbacks would need to weigh the possibility of losing a key bullpen piece to health issues.
Conclusion
Kirby Yates presents a compelling option for the Diamondbacks as they address their bullpen needs. His closing experience, strikeout prowess, and veteran presence align with Arizona’s objectives. However, his age and injury history introduce an element of risk that the team must carefully consider.
To mitigate these risks, Arizona might explore additional signings as an insurance policy against potential regression or health setbacks. Still, Yates’ exceptional rebound and leadership qualities make him a strong candidate to anchor the Diamondbacks’ bullpen in 2025. Whether they pursue him will depend on how the organization balances the potential benefits with the inherent risks of signing a veteran closer.
