4. Middle relief
The Yankees are currently focusing on their starting rotation and, right now, they are letting their middle relief fall by the wayside.
Johnny Barbato, a short-term reliever last year, blew up on the mound yesterday, allowing five runs in 0.2 innings pitched. Chasen Shreve allowed three earned runs in 1.1 innings pitched against the Atlanta Braves last week.
These pitchers who have performed for the Yankees in the past no longer seem to have it. Either that or maybe they’re not getting enough chances to redeem themselves.
Either way, middle relief is an area they need to start focusing on. It’s all well and good to have a reliable starter and a dominant set-up man and closer, but what about in-between? Who is going to pin that lead down and hold opponents so Dellin Betances and Aroldis Chapman can close out the victory?
That’s the thing: the Yankees have no idea right now. All the hype surrounding the starting pitching has distracted them from another important hole on their roster.
Tyler Clippard hasn’t pitched much this spring training due to his commitment to Team USA. Adam Warren is fighting for a starting role. But any back-ups beyond that haven’t been able to prove themselves this spring.
Don’t let these concerns undermine the Yankees’ success this spring. They truly have been fun to watch, which hasn’t been said for a long time.
The Yankees clearly are set for the future. Right now, however, they need to start focusing on the present for a successful season.
