Fri Jan 23 20:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Yankees Claim Michael Siani Off Waivers, Designate Kaleb Ort
The Story:
The New York Yankees announced they have claimed outfielder Michael Siani, 26, off waivers from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers designated Siani for assignment to create roster space for Kyle Tucker. In a corresponding move, the Yankees designated right-handed pitcher Kaleb Ort for assignment. Siani is known for his speed and defensive abilities, while Ort, recently claimed by the Yankees, struggles to translate his high velocity into consistent results.
Key Points:
* The Yankees claimed outfielder Michael Siani off waivers from the Dodgers on January 23, 2026.
* The Dodgers designated Siani for assignment to make room for Kyle Tucker.
* The Yankees designated right-hander Kaleb Ort for assignment to accommodate Siani.
* Siani is a defense-first outfielder with 21 stolen bases in 26 attempts over 160 MLB games.
* Siani’s offensive stats show a .221/.277/.270 batting line with a 58 wRC+.
* Kaleb Ort has a high fastball velocity but inconsistent MLB performance, with a 5.00 ERA over 122.1 innings.
* Both Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones face uncertain futures with the team and have been included in trade speculations.
Critical Analysis:
The Yankees’ acquisition of Michael Siani suggests a strategic focus on defensive depth and speed. Given the re-signing of Trent Grisham and Cody Bellinger, and the presence of Aaron Judge, outfield opportunities for young prospects like Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones may be limited, as is also indicated in trade speculation. The waiving of Kaleb Ort, claimed just weeks prior, may reflect the Yankees’ willingness to prioritize roster flexibility and address specific team needs. The comments point towards the transient nature of the end-of-roster players, which is a common feature across MLB.
Key Takeaways:
* The Yankees are prioritizing defensive depth and speed in their outfield.
* Roster flexibility and strategic team needs drive waiver claims and designations for assignment.
* Young prospects like Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones face uncertain futures due to the crowded outfield.
* The Yankees are willing to churn the bottom of their 40-man roster to improve the team overall.
* Siani provides the Yankees with a potentially valuable late-inning defensive replacement and pinch-runner.
First Piper 