New York brings in the Rangers pitcher via waiver claim

The New York Yankees made another calculated roster adjustment Tuesday as the offseason picture begins to wrap up. The waiver claim, which includes pitching depth and corresponding roster moves, reflects how the organization is finalizing its 40-man structure before spring training. The move continues a broader offseason effort to stockpile flex arms while preserving roster options ahead of Opening Day.

The Yankees claimed right-handed pitcher Dom Hamel waives waivers from Texas Rangersadding a controllable arm as the club balances depth and flexibility. The move comes amid a series of recent additions and contract decisions as the Yankees prepare for camp.

Hammel arrives as a depth option with a strikeout up. The 26-year-old bounced from organization to organization this offseason, but remains an intriguing arm due to his swing-and-miss profile in the minors. His ability to miss bats made him a logical target for a team that prioritizes adaptable pitching options.

To create roster space, the Yankees designated two players for assignment, signaling a preference for arms with remaining minor league options and more roster flexibility. The transaction was confirmed Tuesday afternoon by the team’s official PR department in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), which outlined waiver request and corresponding roster decisions.

“Earlier today, the Yankees made the following roster moves:

• Claimed RHP Dom Hamel off waivers from the Texas Rangers.

• Designated LHP Jaivien Sandridge and INF/OF Marco Luciano for assignment.”

The Yankees’ pitching depth chart remains fluid entering spring training. Hamel profiles as candidate for Triple-A depth or potential coverage depending on health and performance, with remaining options providing flexibility during the season.

Claiming to waive the right-handed pitcher further underscores the pressure on the roster created by a crowded pitching staff, where every pitch requires a corresponding decision. For the Yankeesthe claim for Hamel is a low-risk addition focused on depth and adaptability. It also helps maintain pitching coverage as the season approaches, giving the organization flexibility as it evaluates the competition, manages workloads and shapes the roster to begin the season.