Luke Weaver’s Struggles Resurface in Yankees’ Defeat to Phillies

The New York Yankees faced a disappointing 12-5 defeat against the Philadelphia Phillies, highlighting the ongoing struggles of pitcher Luke Weaver on Friday night at Yankee Stadium. This loss marked a significant setback for the Yankees, particularly with the trade deadline looming.

The Game Breakdown

Weaver entered in the seventh inning, holding a narrow 3-2 lead but quickly turned the tide. Here are the key moments that characterized his performance:

• Initial Situation: With runners on second and third and one out, Weaver inherited a challenging situation. The Yankees were in a position to hold their lead.
• Key Misplay: Nick Castellanos hit a ground ball to first base, but Paul Goldschmidt’s errant throw allowed Trea Turner to score, tying the game at 3-3.
• Home Run Woes: Weaver then surrendered a three-run homer to J.T. Realmuto on a poorly placed changeup, shifting the game to a 6-3 lead for the Phillies.

The Bullpen’s Collapse

Weaver’s struggles were not isolated. The Yankees’ bullpen collectively had a rough outing:

• Tim Hill: Charged with two earned runs.
• Ian Hamilton: Allowed a two-run home run to Kyle Schwarber, who had two home runs in the game.
• Scott Effross: Gave up four runs in the ninth inning, compounding the Yankees’ woes.

In total, the bullpen allowed 10 earned runs and nine hits in just 3 ⅓ innings, showcasing a significant area of concern as the trade deadline approaches.

Luke Weaver throws a pitch during the seventh inning at Yankee Stadium on July 25, 2025. (JASON SZENES/ NY POST)

Manager’s Assessment

“Those guys have been worked hard,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “It’s a challenge right now, but we got to have guys step up.” The team’s depth and fortitude will undoubtedly be tested in the coming days.

Weaver’s Recent Performance

Weaver’s month had already seen him give up seven runs — six earned — in his first three appearances. Following this rocky start, he managed to bounce back with four scoreless outings, yielding only one hit over 6 ⅓ innings. However, Friday’s game reminded everyone of his vulnerability:

• Home Runs Allowed: Weaver has allowed seven home runs in just 15 ⅓ innings this season, raising concerns about his ability to keep the ball in the park.
• Ongoing Challenges: The recurring issue has been his struggle to maintain command during critical moments.

“I feel like of late, his last several outings have been really solid,” Boone commented. “Tonight, [Weaver] hung a changeup to a good right-handed hitter. It’s that war of attrition.”

Conclusion

The Yankees’ loss to the Phillies underscores the pressing need for bolstering their pitching staff as the trade deadline approaches. Luke Weaver’s turbulent outing serves as a warning sign that without adjustments and consistent performance, the Yankees may face an uphill battle moving forward.

For more updates on the Yankees and pitching insights, check out ESPN Yankees Page and stay informed.