Full Breakdown
Ryan Weathers Impresses in First Live Batting Practice with Yankees
2/16/2026, 12:06:00 PM
Key Highlights from Live Batting Practice
Ryan Weathers, the newly acquired left-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees, showcased impressive velocity during his first live batting practice session at Steinbrenner Field on February 15, 2026. Weathers consistently reached speeds of 97 to 98 mph with his fastball, a notable performance for this early in spring training. He expressed confidence in his delivery, stating, “I don’t feel like I’m trying to throw hard, so I think my delivery’s just in a good spot right now.”
Weathers, who was traded to the Yankees from the Miami Marlins in January for four prospects, averaged 96.9 mph on his fastball during the previous season. His ability to maintain high velocity is crucial, especially as he aims to fill the gap left by injured pitchers Carlos Rodón, Gerrit Cole, and Clarke Schmidt at the start of the season.
Health and Performance Considerations
The 26-year-old pitcher has faced challenges with injuries, including a lat strain and a flexor muscle strain last season. The Yankees are taking a cautious approach to his training to ensure he is fully prepared for the upcoming season. Manager Aaron Boone noted, “I feel like physically, he’s in a really good place as far as the work he put in, in the winter,” expressing optimism about Weathers' potential contributions to the team.
In addition to his fastball, Weathers is developing a new two-seam fastball aimed at enhancing his effectiveness against left-handed hitters. He reported positive feedback from his initial attempts with this pitch, noting it exhibited significant movement.
Strategic Adjustments and Future Outlook
Weathers emphasized a shift in his pitching strategy, focusing on trusting his abilities and placing his pitches effectively within the strike zone. He stated, “I think just trusting my stuff in the middle of the plate... The more I can get in advantage counts, I’ll be able to get more outs.” This approach reflects a broader strategy within the Yankees' pitching department to maximize performance through confidence in their skills.
Conclusion
As Ryan Weathers continues to integrate into the Yankees' roster, his early performance in batting practice indicates a promising start. With a focus on health and strategic adjustments, he aims to solidify his role in the Yankees' pitching lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team's management remains hopeful that Weathers can elevate his game and contribute significantly to their success.
