The New York Yankees find themselves in urgent need of at least one additional reliever as spring training gets underway. Yankees writer Chris Kirschner recently reported that two key bullpen arms will be unavailable for the time being, leaving the team searching for reinforcements.
This development is far from ideal for Yankees fans, especially before the team has even begun workouts. However, viable options remain on the market—one of the most intriguing being a $6 million veteran reliever.
Buck Farmer, who pitched for the Cincinnati Reds in 2024, is still seeking a team for the 2025 season. Last year, he appeared in 61 games, posting a solid 3.04 ERA and striking out 70 batters. His performance was efficient, contributing a career-best 1.7 WAR.
Despite turning 34 soon, Farmer continues to pitch at a high level. Surprisingly, he remains unsigned, making him a potential bullpen asset for the Yankees if they opt to strengthen their relief corps externally.
One potential drawback, according to his Baseball Savant profile, is his below-average fastball velocity, ranking in the 28th percentile, along with an 18th percentile ground ball rate. While his velocity is unlikely to improve at this stage, refining his control and inducing weaker contact could make him a valuable addition.
Farmer is projected to earn around $6 million in 2025, though with little movement in his market, he might be willing to sign for less. With the season fast approaching, the Yankees could take advantage of his availability to reinforce their bullpen.
