Yankees Exercise Luke Weaver's $2.5M 2025 Contract Option After World Series Loss

The New York Yankees exercised the team's 2025 contract option for right-hander Luke Weaver worth $2.5 million on Friday, according to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com.

Weaver wrapped up an impressive second season with the Yankees in 2024, excelling as a bullpen option throughout the first half of the year before stepping up as New York's closer before the start of the postseason following struggles by Clay Holmes.

He also became a consistent option for the Yankees throughout their run to the World Series, making 12 postseason appearances in 2024.

Weaver finished the regular season with a 2.89 ERA in 62 appearances, recording 103 strikeouts compared to 26 walks in 84 innings of work. He also registered four saves in four opportunities.

The 31-year-old wasn't flawless in the postseason, blowing a save during New York's matchup with the Cleveland Guardians in Game 3 of the American League Championship Series.

Still, he was often put into situations with runners in scoring position and remained effective overall. In 15.1 innings pitched during the postseason, he compiled a 1.76 ERA to go along with 16 strikeouts and two walks.

Weaver was initially claimed by the Yankees off waivers in Sept. 2023. He became a free agent during the ensuing offseason and re-signed with New York on a $2 million deal before his breakout 2024 campaign.

His $2.5 million salary for the 2025 season is a steal for the Yankees if he's able to replicate his 2024 production, as it ranks No. 12 among all closers in the majors (via Spotrac).

Following his strong finish to the regular season and dominant postseason run to help New York win its first AL pennant since 2009, Weaver is expected to open the 2025 season as the Yankees' full-time closer.