The New York Yankees are close to finalizing a new contract with pitching coach Matt Blake, a key move for the team as they navigate the offseason. Blake's work has been instrumental in the Yankees' pitching success, most notably leading the majors with a 3.24 ERA this past season, despite significant injuries to their rotation and bullpen.
Blake, who was working on an expiring contract this year, has earned recognition for his ability to develop pitchers. The Yankees originally hired him in 2020, and he quickly gained the respect of his players due to his knowledge and approachable demeanor. Under his guidance, the team has consistently transformed relievers acquired from other clubs into valuable contributors.
Despite facing injuries to key starters such as Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Ryan Weathers, the Yankees' pitching staff remained a strength. The emergence of pitcher Cam Schlittler, who is expected to win the AL Cy Young award, was a significant factor. The bullpen also performed well, finishing second in the majors with a 3.13 ERA, even with closer David Bednar as one of the few established arms.
Blake expressed satisfaction with the team's performance during the ALDS, noting the collective effort and positive culture within the pitching staff. "I would say if you told me the way the injuries were going to play out and maybe who the names were [in the bullpen], I’m not sure I would have guessed we would have led the league in ERA and be in the top three or four of a lot of the main peripherals," Blake said. "But it’s not totally surprising when you see we got the best out of a lot of them and they picked each other up and we had a great culture in the group this year."
Blake's continued presence is seen as important for manager Aaron Boone, who is returning for his tenth season. The coaching staff under Blake includes assistant pitching coach Desi Druschel, bullpen coach Preston Claiborne, and director of pitching Sam Briend.