Could The New York Yankees Be Adding Another Arm For The Bullpen?

Apr 3, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Joel Hanrahan (52) pitches during the ninth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Boston won 7-4. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

In the off-season, I talked about some interesting bullpen options that the Yankees could go and get not only for the beginning of the season, but to have for later on in the season. The Yankees signed one of those guys in Andrew Bailey, who won’t be ready until at least August. They could be adding another arm, who is also a former Red Sox closer.

Joel Hanrahan, who is working his way back from Tommy John and flexor tendon surgery last May, and he is holding a showcase for teams next week. Hanrahan became the closer for the Pittsburgh Pirates back in 2011 and had two All-Star seasons in 2011 and 2012. He was acquired by the Red Sox before last season in a deal that included former Yankee Mark Melancon. He had a 9.82 ERA in nine games, before going under the knife.

The Yankees could probably use a little more depth at the back end of the bullpen. With David Robertson going down with a groin injury, you see their depth being tested. When they had a save opportunity, Shawn Kelley and David Phelps (who had an old-school two-plus inning save which was nice to see) have been the guys. However, they don’t really have much to turn to if injury strikes again.

If Hanrahan has anything in him, the Yankees should take a flyer on him. He probably won’t cost too much, and they could add an option like they did with Bailey.