The New York Yankees may be joining the mix a bit late, but they’re bringing in a 2021 World Series hero who left a lasting impression on MLB during that postseason, especially by dominating the LA Dodgers in the NLCS.
Tyler Matzek is reportedly joining the Yankees on a minor-league deal after “impressing scouts in a recent showcase.” Despite already adding Tim Hill, the Yankees were still in need of another left-handed reliever and opted for a low-risk, high-reward move.
Matzek, now heading into his age-34 season, has appeared in just 11 games since the start of 2023 following Tommy John surgery. Since then, he has faced setbacks from that procedure, along with back and side injuries.
He was dealt to the San Francisco Giants in the Jorge Soler trade at the 2024 deadline but didn’t play in a game for the rest of the season. The Giants released him in August, he rejoined the Braves in September, and then entered free agency at the season’s end.
This spring, he’ll aim to work his way back into a bullpen role, though his standout seasons from 2020 and 2021 are now a distant memory.
Yankees News: Tyler Matzek reportedly signing minor-league contract with NYY
In 2021, Matzek put together the best season of his career, posting a 2.57 ERA, 3.20 FIP, and 1.22 WHIP while racking up 77 strikeouts over 63 innings. However, his most impressive performance came that October, when he tossed 15 2/3 innings, allowed just three earned runs, and struck out 24, playing a key role in the Braves’ World Series triumph.
The defining moment of that postseason run? Matzek striking out Mookie Betts on three pitches in Game 6 of the NLCS, securing the win in the clincher. Over five games against the Dodgers, he fanned 11 batters while allowing just two earned runs on one hit and two walks across six innings.
Matzek brought an intimidating presence to the Braves’ bullpen that season, standing out as one of the most fiery competitors on the mound. Maybe that’s exactly what the Yankees hope to add in 2025. It’s certainly something they need—though perhaps in a more proven form.
Still, if Matzek can regain full strength under Matt Blake’s guidance, this signing has the potential to be one of Brian Cashman’s best moves of the offseason.
