The New York Yankees have claimed right-handed pitcher Allan Winans off waivers, according to Chase Ford of MiLB Central, after the Atlanta Braves designated him for assignment last week. In eight MLB starts, Winans has posted a 7.20 ERA and a 4.99 FIP, with a 20.9% strikeout rate and a 46.9% ground-ball rate. While his fastball averages just 89-91 MPH, he relies on his changeup and slider to generate whiffs and grounders.
Winans spent most of the 2024 season in Triple-A, where he recorded a 3.30 ERA over 114.2 innings, striking out 20.8% of opposing batters. A reliable starter at the upper levels of the minors, he takes a spot on the Yankees’ 40-man roster, though his role could range from providing depth to being released if the team needs roster flexibility.
The Yankees are always looking to bolster their pitching depth, and Winans brings a crafty approach to the mound, relying on his off-speed pitches rather than overpowering velocity. If the Yankees can further develop his changeup and slider, he could become a more effective contributor. However, it seems unlikely he’ll add velocity at this stage of his career, as he’s consistently lacked it.
While Winans performed well in Triple-A and served as a decent depth option for the Braves in 2023, it’s difficult to envision him making the Yankees’ Opening Day roster unless significant injuries arise. His current role may be to hold a roster spot while the team continues its search for left-handed relievers and infield help. Tim Hill remains a popular bullpen target, and moving Marcus Stroman, who is owed $18.5 million in 2025, could also be a priority to free up payroll for other needs.
As Spring Training approaches, the Yankees are navigating a market that has started to pick up pace. While Winans doesn’t solve their key roster issues, he provides low-risk pitching depth and may have some value in a limited role if injuries create opportunities.
