Dodgers’ Risky Move The Truth Behind Their One-Year Deal with Kirby Yates

The Los Angeles Dodgers have stunned the baseball world by signing Kirby Yates, the former star reliever from the Atlanta Braves. However, the most surprising detail is that they only signed him to a one-year contract. Is this just a short-term experiment, or is there a deeper strategy behind this move?

Kirby Yates: Once an Elite Closer, Now Struggling with Injuries

At his peak, Yates was one of the most dominant closers in MLB, especially during his time with the San Diego Padres in 2019. That season, he posted an ERA of just 1.19, making him one of the most feared relievers in the game.

However, his career took a sharp downturn due to recurring injuries. From undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2020 to recent arm issues, Yates has struggled to regain his prime form.

So, what exactly are the Dodgers thinking by signing a 36-year-old pitcher with a concerning injury history?

A One-Year Deal: Are the Dodgers Just Testing Yates?

The short-term contract suggests that the Dodgers don’t fully trust Yates yet. They are unwilling to commit long-term to a player with such high injury risks but still see potential value in his experience and skills for the upcoming season.

Moreover, this could be a smart financial decision. A one-year contract keeps payroll flexibility intact, allowing the Dodgers to make bigger moves later if needed. If Yates performs well, they could negotiate an extension at a reasonable price. If he struggles, they can part ways with minimal consequences.

What Do the Dodgers Expect from Yates? Strengthening the Bullpen

The Dodgers’ bullpen has been inconsistent, and they desperately need depth in late-inning relief. Yates could play a key role as a setup man or even a backup closer, depending on his performance.

While he’s no longer an All-Star-level closer, he still has the ability to deliver powerful pitches when healthy. The Dodgers are likely betting on him as a low-risk, high-reward addition to stabilize their bullpen.

Is There a Hidden Strategy Behind This Move?

A one-year deal suggests the Dodgers are experimenting with Kirby Yates, possibly with an injury management plan that could help him regain form. But there could be something more behind the scenes—have the Dodgers discovered something others haven’t?

Are they preparing to flip Yates in a trade if he performs well early in the season? Or is he just a temporary piece before the Dodgers make a bigger bullpen move?

Are the Dodgers playing a smart game?

Signing Kirby Yates on a one-year deal is more than just a random move. The Dodgers are making a calculated gamble, hoping to get solid innings from Yates or, at the very least, have a veteran reliever in their bullpen.

While this deal may not grab headlines like a blockbuster signing, if Yates finds his rhythm, the Dodgers could have a hidden weapon for the season.

Will Yates prove the Doubters wrong?

Despite skepticism, Kirby Yates still has the mindset of a fierce competitor. If he can stay healthy and regain even a fraction of his peak form, he could become a key asset for the Dodgers. However, if injuries persist, this deal might be nothing more than a calculated risk gone wrong.