The New York Yankees are set to be busy this offseason after yet another campaign where they failed to meet expectations. With several significant areas of need on the roster, the front office’s success in addressing these needs will likely determine how competitive the team is in 2026.

### A Pressing Need: The Bullpen

Perhaps the most glaring weakness for the Yankees right now is their bullpen. Despite making several aggressive moves in recent years to transform the bullpen into a formidable weapon, the results haven’t lived up to expectations. Strengthening the late-inning relief squad remains a critical priority for the team.

### Yankees Eye New Free Agent Target: Pete Fairbanks

Thanks to a surprising decision by the Tampa Bay Rays, the Yankees now have a promising new free agent to consider—closer Pete Fairbanks.

Entering the offseason, many believed Fairbanks could be a trade target for New York. The Rays had an $11 million option on Fairbanks’ contract and, being one of the most frugal teams in the league, were expected to keep him. However, the Rays declined that option, making Fairbanks a free agent.

Now on the open market, Fairbanks is expected to attract significant attention and could command a lucrative new contract.

### Fairbanks’ Recent Performance

In his third season as the Rays’ closer, Fairbanks posted a 4-5 record with a 2.83 ERA, notching a career-high 27 saves while striking out 59 batters. While he has closing experience, Fairbanks may ultimately fit best as a setup man, offering flexibility in a bullpen role.

Given New York’s intent to pursue nearly every available late-inning relief pitcher this offseason, Fairbanks has quickly become an attainable and appealing option.

### Expert Opinion: Yanks Go Yard’s Stephen Parello Weighs In

Stephen Parello of *Yanks Go Yard* urged the Yankees to sign Fairbanks, emphasizing his talent and value:

> “Armed with a high-90s fastball, a wipeout slider, and the type of demeanor you love to see from a relief ace, Fairbanks now joins Diaz and Suarez as a third legitimate top-tier late-inning option in free agency. With a 2.83 ERA and 332 strikeouts in 265 1/3 innings over the last four seasons, he’s a dominant force in his own right who could either bump David Bednar to the eighth or set up for the Yankees’ most reliable reliever.”

### Should the Yankees Sign Pete Fairbanks?

Fairbanks presents an appealing option for the Yankees. Financially, money is not a huge constraint for New York, but Fairbanks could be a relatively cost-effective choice compared to other top-tier relievers like Edwin Diaz and Robert Suarez. His versatility to fill multiple bullpen roles also adds to his appeal.

At this point, it seems more a question of which bullpen arms the Yankees will add this offseason rather than if they will add any at all. While Fairbanks makes plenty of sense on paper, New York may prioritize other targets or opt out if the price rises too high.

### Conclusion

Regardless of the final decision, Pete Fairbanks is now a name to watch as he hits the free agent market. His availability could ignite a competitive bidding war among teams looking to bolster their late-inning relief corps, and the Yankees are sure to be one of the key players involved.
https://heavy.com/sports/mlb/new-york-yankees/pete-fairbanks-rays-option/