Kirby Yates Landing Spots: Predicting 3 teams that might pursue 2x All-Star coming off elite 2024 campaign

It was a comeback for the ages for Kirby Yates in 2024. The 37-year-old once looked like his MLB career could be coming to an end after a serious injury and underperformance made him look like a shell of himself. Well, that is clearly a thing of the past as Yates was sensational in 2024, earning the second All-Star selection of his career.

Last season for the Texas Rangers, Yates posted a spectacular 7-2 record with a career-best 1.17 ERA and 85 strikeouts over 61.2 innings. He also racked up a whopping 33 saves, which was the second-highest total of his career. It's safe to say that Yates was back.

Thanks to the impressive level of production, there's no doubt that Yates is one of the most sought-after back-end relievers on the free-agent market. Given the number of closer vacancies and the need for top-end bullpen talent, Yates might have his pick of the litter.

Here's a closer look at 3 potential landing spots for Kirby Yates in free agency

#1, Texas Rangers

A return to the Texas Rangers might be in the best interest of both parties. Yates enjoyed the best season of his career with them, and the Rangers need to bring him back into the fold. While Yates might be tempted to join another club, especially if the money is right, there's no guarantee that the grass will be greener on the other side.

If Kirby Yates were to return to Texas, he would more than likely resume his role as the club's closer and hope to continue building on his 2024 momentum. The Rangers, as a whole, underperformed, so there's a chance that they return to their World Series form in 2025, which could help Yates push for his first ring.

#2, Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have made a number of moves this offseason, with none bigger than the acquisition of Kyle Tucker. Now with a new superstar in town, the front office will need to bolster the rest of the roster around him, including the bullpen, which has plenty of question marks. Kirby Yates could come in a bring stability to the back of the bullpen, while young arms such as Porter Hodge continue to grow.

#3, New York Mets

Another club that needs to be all-in this season is the New York Mets. The team already made some significant changes by adding Juan Soto, Clay Holmes and Frankie Montas. However, by also bringing in Kirby Yates, the Mets would have quality insurance around star close Edwin Diaz. Diaz struggled in 2024, so bringing in a proven star like Yates could be essential for a World Series run.