The New York Yankees part ways with longtime reliever Jonathan Loáisiga, who signs a minor-league deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks for 2026.
Yankees Part Ways with Familiar Clubhouse Presence
The New York Yankees have officially lost one of their longest-serving players, as Jonathan Loáisiga prepares for a new chapter in the National League West. The veteran right-hander, a longtime teammate of Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, has signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks ahead of the 2026 MLB season.
The move ends nearly a decade-long stint in pinstripes for Loáisiga, who joined the Yankees organization in 2016 and remained a steady clubhouse presence through multiple playoff runs.
Jonathan Loáisiga Signs with Diamondbacks
According to MLB insider Jorge Castillo, Loáisiga agreed to a minor-league contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The signing was confirmed shortly before Arizona completed a separate headline move involving Nolan Arenado, signaling an active offseason for the NL West contender.
At 31 years old, Loáisiga now looks to re-establish himself with a Diamondbacks team quietly building depth and competitiveness in a tough division.
Why Did the Yankees Let Loáisiga Go?
Ahead of the 2025 MLB season, Loáisiga signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Yankees, which included a $500,000 signing bonus. The deal featured a team option for 2026, which New York ultimately declined.
By passing on the option, the Yankees made Loáisiga an unrestricted free agent, allowing him to explore opportunities elsewhere. Arizona moved quickly to secure him on a low-risk, prove-it deal.
A Decade in Pinstripes Comes to an End
Only Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton had spent more time with the Yankees than Loáisiga. Over the years, he evolved from a promising young arm into a trusted bullpen option, even if injuries and inconsistency limited his long-term role.
His departure represents more than a roster move—it marks another sign of transition within the Yankees’ clubhouse as the organization reshapes its core.
2025 Performance Snapshot
During the 2025 season, Loáisiga appeared in 30 games, finishing with:
- ERA: 4.25
- WAR: 0.2
- Home runs allowed: 7 (career high)
While his on-field impact declined, his experience and leadership remained valued internally. Still, the Yankees appear focused on roster flexibility rather than sentiment.
Yankees Shifting Focus Elsewhere
With Loáisiga gone, New York’s priorities now center on outfield reinforcements, particularly efforts to re-sign Cody Bellinger. Reports suggest the Yankees may offer a contract featuring a special clause to retain the former MVP, or pivot to free agency if talks stall.
The bullpen, meanwhile, is expected to be reshaped through internal promotions and targeted acquisitions.
What’s Next for Loáisiga?
For Loáisiga, the move to Arizona offers a fresh opportunity to reset his career. If he performs well in spring training, he could earn a role on a Diamondbacks roster aiming to challenge in the NL West.
For the Yankees, it’s another familiar face gone—and another step into a new era in the Bronx.
