The BRONX, N.Y. — The New York Yankees pulled off a last-minute trade, acquiring San Francisco Giants closer Camilo Doval just before the MLB trade deadline on Thursday. The move strengthens an already revamped bullpen, adding a former All-Star with a blazing fastball to a team chasing a World Series title.
Doval, 28, brings electrifying stuff to the Bronx. His four-seam fastball, which can hit 104 mph, and a sharp slider have made him one of baseball’s most dynamic relievers. The right-hander, who earned a National League All-Star nod in 2023, posted a 3.09 ERA with 15 saves in 47 appearances this season. His 50 strikeouts over 46.2 innings highlight his ability to overpower hitters, though a 12.6% walk rate signals occasional control issues.
The Yankees sent a package of four prospects to San Francisco, including catcher Jesus Rodriguez, third baseman Parks Harber, right-hander Trystan Vrieling, and left-hander Carlos De Rosa. The deal caps a busy deadline day for New York, which also added relievers David Bednar from the Pittsburgh Pirates and Jake Bird from the Colorado Rockies. With Devin Williams and Luke Weaver already in the mix, the Yankees now boast a deep, versatile bullpen poised to handle high-pressure playoff moments.
Doval’s journey to the Yankees marks a fresh chapter for the Dominican pitcher. After debuting with the Giants in 2021, he quickly rose to prominence, becoming the youngest Giants pitcher to record a save since 1992. In 2023, he led the National League with 39 saves, earning Reliever of the Month honors in May and September. However, a rocky 2024 season saw him demoted to Triple-A amid struggles with consistency and focus. This year, Doval rebounded, reclaiming the closer role in May and showing improved command, particularly in controlling the running game.
The trade stirred buzz across social media, with fans and analysts weighing in on the blockbuster move. Many praised the Yankees’ aggressive approach, noting the team’s bullpen now ranks among the league’s elite. Others expressed concern about Doval’s occasional lapses in high-leverage situations, questioning how he’ll handle the intense spotlight of New York. Giants fans, meanwhile, lamented the loss of a homegrown talent, though some acknowledged the strong return of prospects could aid San Francisco’s roster rebuild.
For the Yankees, the acquisition addresses a critical need. The team’s bullpen struggled earlier this season, prompting general manager Brian Cashman to overhaul the relief corps. Doval’s arrival gives manager Aaron Boone a flamethrowing option for the ninth inning, potentially reshaping roles for Bednar, Williams, and others. With the Yankees in a tight race in the AL East, the move signals their all-in mentality for a postseason run.
San Francisco, sitting at one game under .500 and sitting on the outside of playoff contention, pivoted to the future. The Giants, who also traded reliever Tyler Rogers to the Mets, leaned on new president of baseball operations Buster Posey to maximize returns for their bullpen arms. Doval’s departure clears the way for Randy Rodriguez to take over as closer, though the Giants face challenges replacing their former star’s presence.
As the Yankees prepare to face the Mets this weekend, Doval could make his debut in pinstripes soon. His high-octane arm adds firepower to a team hungry for its 28th championship.
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