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**Summary:**

Yankees closer Luke Weaver is expected to be placed on the 15-day IL due to a hamstring injury sustained during warmups. The injury could sideline him for 4-6 weeks. Weaver has been a dominant reliever for the Yankees, taking over the closer role from Devin Williams after Williams struggled early in the season. With Weaver out, Williams, who has been pitching much better recently, is the likely candidate to reclaim the closer role. Mark Leiter Jr. and the returning Fernando Cruz are other possibilities. Weaver’s injury timeline puts his return around the All-Star Break, giving the Yankees time to assess their bullpen needs before the trade deadline. His performance this season should make him a desirable free agent, though likely only for a three year deal.

**News Article:**

**Yankees Closer Luke Weaver Headed to IL with Hamstring Injury**

**NEW YORK, NY** – In a blow to the New York Yankees bullpen, closer Luke Weaver is expected to be placed on the 15-day injured list with a hamstring injury sustained during warmups on Sunday. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that the injury could keep Weaver sidelined for 4-6 weeks.

Weaver, who took over the closer role from Devin Williams earlier this season, has been a key cog in the Yankees’ relief corps, posting a strong performance. After the acquisition of Williams, the team hoped Weaver would be a set up man. However, Williams struggled early on, forcing manager Aaron Boone to return the ninth inning duties to Weaver.

Now, with Weaver out, the spotlight turns to Williams, who has shown significant improvement recently, recording scoreless outings in 10 of his last 11 appearances.

“Boone will presumably provide an update on the team’s plans for the ninth inning when he meets with the New York beat,” said Passan.

While Williams is the most obvious choice, Mark Leiter Jr. and Fernando Cruz, who is expected to return from shoulder inflammation imminently, are also potential candidates.

Weaver’s injury timeline could see him return around the All-Star Break, giving the Yankees front office a window to evaluate their bullpen before the trade deadline.

Weaver is set to enter free agency at the end of the season. Despite turning 32, a strong return from injury could cement his status among the top free agent relievers.

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