November 4, 2025 – New York, NY
In a story that left Yankees fans both emotional and conflicted, reliever Mark Leiter Jr. — once a key bullpen arm but now struggling through a difficult 2025 season — has reportedly expressed his desire to stay in New York even after learning he’s part of the team’s offseason trade talks.
According to The Athletic’s sources, Leiter was informed late last week that the Yankees are exploring trade options involving him ahead of arbitration, citing concerns about his recurring shoulder issues and overall performance drop. The 34-year-old right-hander posted a 5.12 ERA and 1.45 WHIP across 48 appearances this season — a steep decline from his 2024 form that once made him a trusted late-inning option.
Despite those setbacks, Leiter’s reaction stunned the organization. Rather than expressing frustration or disappointment, he requested a private meeting with the front office to make his stance clear.
“I don’t want to leave New York,” Leiter reportedly told Yankees management. “This city means everything to me. The fans, the pinstripes — they push you to be better every day. If taking less money helps me stay and prove myself again, I’m willing. I just want to earn it back on the mound.”
Team insiders say Leiter’s words deeply moved several coaches and staff members who’ve seen his work ethic up close, even through his rehab setbacks. “He’s been one of the hardest-working guys in that bullpen,” one assistant coach said. “You can tell it’s not about the paycheck for him — it’s about pride.”
Still, the Yankees front office faces a difficult decision. With Leiter’s projected arbitration salary at $2.5 million, his declining efficiency, and a growing list of reliable free-agent relievers available, General Manager Brian Cashman is under pressure to optimize payroll flexibility heading into 2026.
When asked about Leiter’s future, a team spokesperson issued a brief statement that left fans uneasy:
“We’re evaluating all options that align with our long-term goals. No final decision has been made.”
That response — businesslike and emotionless — did little to ease the tension among Yankees supporters, many of whom took to social media expressing sympathy for Leiter.
One fan posted on X:
“You can fix mechanics, you can fix velocity — but you can’t teach loyalty. Mark still bleeds pinstripes.”
Strategically, the Yankees’ logic is clear: with Leiter’s shoulder health uncertain and his fastball command inconsistent, replacing him via free agency could be cost-effective and lower-risk. But emotionally, moving on from a player willing to sacrifice pay just to stay feels like a loss that numbers can’t measure.
As one anonymous player put it after hearing the news:
“He might not be closing games right now, but his heart still belongs to this clubhouse.”
And in a franchise built on legacy and loyalty, that kind of heart still matters — even when the numbers don’t.
