Kirby Yates Joins Dodgers With Big Money Deal, Performance Bonuses and Chance at Greatness

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially secured the services of Kirby Yates, signing the experienced right-handed pitcher to a one-year, $13 million contract. However, the deal comes with an extra financial incentive—Yates can earn up to $100,000 in performance bonuses if he meets specific benchmarks.

Announced on January 30, 2025, the contract structure includes a $3 million signing bonus along with a $10 million base salary for the season. Additionally, Yates will receive $50,000 each for making 50 and 55 relief appearances throughout the year. This performance-based clause signals the Dodgers’ confidence in his ability to contribute consistently from the bullpen.

A Career Defined by Resilience and Dominance

At 37 years old, Yates remains a dominant force on the mound. His 2024 season with the Texas Rangers was nothing short of spectacular, as he posted an impressive 7-2 record with a career-best 1.17 ERA. This performance solidified his reputation as a reliable closer, capable of shutting down opposing lineups under high-pressure situations.

His 33 saves in 2024 were instrumental in the Rangers’ bullpen success. This remarkable comeback season followed his 2023 deal with Texas, when he signed a $4.5 million, one-year contract. The Dodgers clearly saw his elite performance and wasted no time in securing his services for 2025.

An Impressive Career Across Multiple Teams

Over the years, Yates has established himself as a bullpen workhorse. His career numbers speak volumes about his consistency and effectiveness. He boasts a 26-21 record with a 3.17 ERA and has racked up an astonishing 95 saves in 422 career relief appearances.

His journey through Major League Baseball (MLB) has seen him don the jerseys of several franchises, including:

• Tampa Bay Rays
• New York Yankees
• Los Angeles Angels
• San Diego Padres
• Atlanta Braves
• Texas Rangers

Despite bouncing between teams, Yates has remained an impactful closer wherever he has landed. His ability to adapt and perform under different systems showcases his mental toughness and skillset—qualities that will undoubtedly benefit the Dodgers’ bullpen in 2025.

The Breakout Year That Made Him a Star

Though he had been an effective reliever for years, Yates’ defining season came in 2019 when he played for the San Diego Padres. That year, he put up mind-blowing numbers, recording an MLB-best 41 saves and an incredible 1.19 ERA.

Additionally, he struck out a career-high 101 batters in just 60 2/3 innings, demonstrating an elite ability to overpower hitters. Despite a 0-5 record, his dominance on the mound earned him his first All-Star selection and cemented his status as one of the league’s top closers.

Dodgers’ Strategy: Adding Firepower to the Bullpen

The Dodgers have long relied on a deep bullpen to maintain their World Series aspirations, and the addition of Yates only strengthens their pitching arsenal. His veteran presence, combined with his proven track record in high-pressure situations, makes him an invaluable asset for the team’s late-inning relief efforts.

Los Angeles is no stranger to championship contention, and with Yates in the mix, they’re reinforcing a bullpen that will be critical in their postseason push. His ability to lock down saves and minimize damage in tight games could prove pivotal as the Dodgers chase yet another National League pennant.

A Late-Round Gem Who Defied the Odds

Yates’ journey to MLB stardom wasn’t conventional. Unlike many elite pitchers who were high draft picks, he was selected in the 26th round of the 2005 amateur draft by the Boston Red Sox. The odds of a late-round pick making a significant impact in MLB are slim, yet Yates defied expectations and carved out a remarkable career.

His resilience and determination are testaments to his work ethic and passion for the game. From being an overlooked draft pick to becoming a two-time All-Star closer, his career trajectory is a story of perseverance and grit—one that Dodgers fans will hope continues to unfold with more success in Los Angeles.

What’s Next for Kirby Yates?

With his one-year deal in place, Yates now faces the challenge of replicating his 2024 success in one of baseball’s most competitive environments. The Dodgers’ expectations are sky-high, and the stakes will be enormous as he steps onto the mound at Dodger Stadium.

If Yates can maintain his dominant form, not only will he cash in on his performance bonuses, but he will also put himself in a prime position for another lucrative contract in 2026. With his elite control, devastating splitter, and clutch mentality, there’s no reason to believe he won’t rise to the occasion.

Final Thoughts: Can Yates Deliver for the Dodgers?

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a strategic investment in Kirby Yates, banking on his experience and ability to deliver under pressure. Given his impressive 2024 campaign and proven track record, there’s every reason to believe he will be a key figure in their bullpen rotation.

As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, all eyes will be on Yates and his ability to anchor the Dodgers’ late-inning relief efforts. If he can recreate the dominance he displayed with Texas, this could prove to be one of the most impactful signings of the offseason.