Former Yankee signs a one-year deal with the Athletics; U.S. media highlights his ground ball skills as a good fit for the new home stadium

ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reports that relief pitcher Mark Leiter Jr., waived by the New York Yankees, has signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Athletics.

The 34-year-old Leiter was traded to the Yankees during the 2024 season. Following the move, he pitched in 21 games with a 4.98 ERA. In the 2025 season, his performance remained steady, appearing in 59 games, pitching 48.1 innings, striking out 54 batters, posting a 4.84 ERA, and a WHIP of 1.53. After the season, the Yankees placed him on the non-tender list.

Rogers noted in his report that Leiter excels at inducing ground balls, a skill expected to be particularly valuable for the Athletics, who play in a hitter-friendly new stadium—Sutter Health Park—in Sacramento, California.

After trading closer Mason Miller to the San Diego Padres during the 2025 season, the Athletics did not appoint a fixed closer for the latter half of the year. Instead, they used a bullpen-by-committee approach, finishing strong with a 34-24 record. Leiter is expected to be part of this rotating relief pitcher setup.