Ryan Weathers Joins Yankees 30 Years After His Dad's Title

Ryan Weathers was relaxing in his sauna after a workout when his phone rang with news that would connect him to his father's greatest baseball memory. The Miami Marlins had just traded him to the New York Yankees, the same team where his dad won a World Series ring in 1996.

"We've had weird, similar paths to New York," Weathers said. "Having both been with the Marlins, then going to the Yankees."

David Weathers made history in Game 6 of the 1996 World Series, striking out Javy López in a crucial moment that made Yankee Stadium explode with noise. Now his son gets to write his own chapter in the same ballpark, wearing the same pinstripes.

The younger Weathers couldn't contain his excitement when Yankees executives called. "I just couldn't believe that the New York Yankees were a team that I could ever have a chance to play for," he said.

The timing works perfectly for both sides. The Yankees need starting pitchers after injuries to Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt will keep them sidelined to start the season. Weathers needs a fresh start after injuries limited him to just eight starts last year.

Growing up as a big league kid gave Weathers unique preparation for moments like this. He remembers tagging along to Cincinnati Reds games when his father played there, seeing Joey Votto and Ken Griffey Jr. in the clubhouse while he "just wanted to hit bombs in the outfield."

Those early lessons stuck with him through being drafted seventh overall in 2018 and through his first trade from San Diego to Miami in 2023. His father taught him more than just how to grip a baseball. He showed him how to handle pressure and keep perspective when things get tough.

Why This Inspires

This story shows how dreams can echo across generations. David Weathers worked his way through the minors and became a reliable reliever who delivered in baseball's biggest moment. He passed along not just his talent but his work ethic and love for the game.

Now Ryan gets his shot at creating his own unforgettable memory in front of the same passionate fans who cheered for his father. The Yankees clearly believe in him too, trading four prospects to bring him to New York.

Weathers has already started planning improvements with pitching coach Matt Blake, focusing on using his two-seam fastball more effectively against left-handed batters. He's also worked hard on strengthening his lat and back muscles that caused problems last season.

With a 3.74 ERA over his last 24 starts and team control through 2028, the Yankees are betting Weathers can be a key part of their rotation for years to come. His father set a high bar with that legendary strikeout, but now the younger Weathers has his chance to make 50,000 fans roar just as loud.