The New York Yankees have shown genuine interest in bringing back right-handed reliever Luke Weaver for the 2026 season, according to a league source. The 32-year-old pitcher is also open to returning to the Bronx despite his struggles late in the 2025 campaign.

Approximately 10 teams have contacted Weaver this offseason, though talks with the Yankees remain in early stages. Weaver expressed willingness to return to starting pitching, but no team has indicated interest in using him as a starter despite his 106 career starts.

The relief market has moved quickly this winter, with several top closers already signing elsewhere. Pete Fairbanks and Weaver are considered the two best remaining relievers available. Weaver is open to any high-leverage role, including closing or serving as a fireman.

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the team's need for bullpen reinforcements at the Winter Meetings last week.

"You want your manager to be able to mix-and-match and have really quality people that can handle themselves when you're in the win zone — the seventh, eighth and ninth inning," Cashman said. "Right now, we've lost some really quality arms, and we'll see what we can do to replace them."

Weaver ranked in the 91st percentile in chase rate and 89th percentile in whiff rate during 2025. He finished 10th among all free-agent relievers in whiff rate, despite his ERA rising from 2.89 in 2024 to 3.62 in 2025.

A left hamstring strain in late May derailed Weaver's season. Before the injury, his 2.65 FIP matched his breakout 2024 performance. Late-season pitch tipping issues further compromised his effectiveness and confidence.

The Yankees' current bullpen includes David Bednar, Camilo Doval, Fernando Cruz, Tim Hill, and likely Jake Bird. However, the team has not signed a reliever to a multiyear contract since 2019, which could complicate negotiations with Weaver, who is seeking a multiyear deal.