Yankees' 2024 offseason flop finds new home in NL Central after Astros rebound

There was no move more necessary at last year's trade deadline than the Yankees dealing Caleb Ferguson, the scuffling left-hander they'd brought in during the offseason in a trade with the Dodgers. There was also nothing more obvious than Ferguson rebounding with whatever team he landed on. Unsurprisingly, the Yankees did a favor to their rival Astros, dropping them Ferguson and watching the extremely predictable August/September outcome unfold. "Yes, we did that!" they yelled with glee, as Ferguson dropped his ERA by 1.50 points in the Texas heat.

Luckily, Ferguson's presence wasn't enough to propel Houston back into an ALCS rematch; they were swept in the best-of-three Wild Card round, and the Yankees avoided a clash en route to their first AL pennant in 15 years. The left-hander's arrival immediately after he landed in August didn't go spectacularly, but he eventually recovered, posting a 3.86 ERA in 20 games down the stretch. That stood in stark contrast to his 42 games of 5.13 ERA work in the Bronx.

He began the season as a high-leverage arm, showing up to follow Clay Holmes in several extra-inning adventures. Quickly, the Yankees realized the inherited runner was not his friend. Sometimes, things don't work out.

All New York surrendered was left-hander Matt Gage and prospect Christian Zazueta, and they added reliever Kelly Austin after flipping Ferguson to Houston. The Yankees could win their initial play long-term, and now, Ferguson will head to Pittsburgh, where there's a massive lefty void awaiting him. At the moment, the Pirates' only left-handed bullpen arm is Joey Wentz, following Aroldis Chapman's departure to Boston. There's a chance Ferguson landed in the best possible spot with the most wiggle room -- and hey, Yankees-to-Pirates worked out well for Dennis Santana last year.

Former Yankees target Caleb Ferguson lands with Pittsburgh Pirates after Astros trade

Ironically, the Yankees actually need left-handed relievers this winter. Ferguson, who's been relatively unlucky these past few seasons based on most metrics, would be an interesting buy low/bounce back candidate commensurate with the Yankees' ethos. Obviously, they like him. They liked him last year! Alas ... no, check this one off the list.

The Yankees found Tim Hill around the same time Ferguson's departure became etched in stone. Hopefully, he returns soon, and Andrew Chafin materializes as well, giving the Yanks a second offseason bite at the apple.