YANKEES GET LEITER JR. FROM THE CUBS
The New York Yankees acquired pitcher Mark Leiter Jr. from the Chicago Cubs for infielder Benjamin Cowles and pitcher Jack Neely.
What does it give the New York Yankees
The Yankees bolster their bullpen depth by adding the veteran right-hander Leiter Jr. He has been an effective setup man for the Cubs the past few seasons. Though he has a 4.21 ERA on the year, he does boast 53 strikeouts and a solid 1.10 WHIP in 36.1 innings. In the Bronx, he may work more in middle relief. But, Leiter Jr. is a quality option in later innings, too.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
The Cubs did not receive top prospects, but they both players have potential. Neely is a 6'8" reliever who has had success in the minors this season (41.2 IP, 2.81 ERA, 63:16 K/BB). Cowles has spent 2024 in Double-A, slashing .294/.376/.472 with nine homers and 14 steals. Both 2021 Yankees draft picks will now get a fresh start in Chicago's organization.
Fantasy impact
Leiter Jr.'s value takes a small hit from this trade, as he may not be the primary right-handed setup man in New York. Luke Weaver has been effective in that role. As a result, Leiter Jr. may pick up fewer holds but his strikeout upside still makes him useful in most fantasy leagues. Neither Chicago newcomer should be on the fantasy radar for the time being.
