Yankees’ Waiver Wire Moves Signal a Shift Towards Strategic Roster Depth
The New York Yankees are playing a high-stakes game of roster chess, and the recent flurry of waiver claims – outfielder Michael Siani from the Dodgers and right-hander Kaleb Ort from the Astros – isn’t about immediate upgrades. It’s about building a safety net, a readily available pool of talent that could prove invaluable as the 2026 season unfolds and beyond. This strategy, while seemingly minor, reflects a growing trend across MLB: prioritizing flexible depth over chasing every splashy free agent.
Siani: Speed and Defense as Premium Commodities
Michael Siani, the centerpiece of this particular move, isn’t a power hitter. His .221/.277/.270 slash line and 58 wRC+ speak volumes. However, his value lies in what doesn’t show up on a traditional stat sheet: speed and defensive prowess. In 160 big league games, Siani has stolen 21 bases in 26 attempts and accumulated impressive defensive metrics – seven Defensive Runs Saved and 17 Outs Above Average. These attributes are increasingly sought after in a league emphasizing run prevention and maximizing outs.
The Yankees’ interest isn’t necessarily about Siani becoming an everyday player. With Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham, and Cody Bellinger locked into outfield roles (for now), Siani provides insurance. He’s a potential fill-in for injuries, a late-game defensive replacement, or a trade chip down the line. The fact that he’s been claimed by multiple teams – Cardinals, Atlanta, Dodgers, and now the Yankees – suggests clubs see value in his skillset as a low-cost, high-potential reserve.
The DFA Carousel and the Value of Options
The corresponding move, designating Kaleb Ort for assignment, highlights another key aspect of modern roster construction: the strategic use of options. Ort, despite possessing upper-90s velocity, hasn’t consistently translated that into big league success. His 5.00 ERA over 122 1/3 innings is a clear indicator. Being out of options makes him vulnerable, and the Yankees may simply be clearing space to evaluate Siani, potentially putting Ort back on the waiver wire. This “DFA limbo,” as it’s often called, is a common practice, allowing teams to assess their needs without committing to a player long-term.
This constant shuffling of players via waivers isn’t a sign of chaos; it’s a calculated approach to roster management. Teams are increasingly willing to take fliers on players with specific skills, hoping to uncover hidden gems or simply maintain a deep pool of talent. The Yankees, under the current front office, appear to be embracing this philosophy.
The Future of Domínguez and Jones – and Siani’s Role
The Yankees also have prospects Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones vying for outfield playing time. Both possess significant upside but currently lack a clear path to consistent at-bats. Their options provide the Yankees with flexibility – they can be sent to Triple-A to develop without losing their roster spots. However, the re-signing of Grisham and Bellinger complicates matters.
Siani’s ultimate role hinges on the performance of these players and the overall health of the team. If Domínguez or Jones struggle, or if injuries arise, Siani could find himself in a more prominent position. His ability to play all three outfield positions adds to his versatility. He’s a low-risk, potentially high-reward acquisition, a player who could provide valuable contributions without breaking the bank.
Beyond Siani and Ort: A League-Wide Trend
The Yankees’ moves aren’t isolated incidents. Across MLB, teams are prioritizing roster depth and flexibility. The increasing emphasis on analytics has led to a greater appreciation for specialized skills, even if they don’t translate into gaudy offensive numbers. Players like Siani, who excel in specific areas, are becoming increasingly valuable commodities. This trend is driven by the understanding that injuries are inevitable and that a well-rounded roster is essential for sustained success.
Furthermore, the evolving rules of baseball – including the expanded playoff format – incentivize teams to maintain a competitive roster throughout the season. Having readily available depth allows teams to weather injuries and slumps without sacrificing their chances of contention.
The Yankees’ recent waiver claims are a microcosm of a larger trend in MLB. It’s a shift away from solely focusing on star power and towards building a roster that is resilient, adaptable, and capable of weathering any storm. While Siani and Ort may not be household names, their acquisitions signal a smart, strategic approach to roster construction that could pay dividends for the Yankees in the long run.
What impact will this emphasis on depth have on the trade market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
