Yankees Secure Angel Chivilli in Rockies Trade
The New York Yankees have officially added reliever Angel Chivilli to their roster through a trade with the Colorado Rockies. In exchange, the Rockies receive minor league first baseman T.J. Rumfield. This one-for-one transaction marks a strategic move for both franchises.
Angel Chivilli Profile
Angel Chivilli, a 23-year-old right-handed pitcher, has shown potential as a strikeout artist during his brief MLB career. He averaged 97.1 mph on his four-seam fastball last season. Chivilli boasts a notable 14.4% swinging-strike rate, indicating his ability to miss bats, yet he struggles with consistency. His career reflects a below-average 17.4% strikeout rate, accompanied by a concerning 1.99 home runs allowed per nine innings pitched.
- Fastball Velocity: 97.1 mph
- Swinging Strike Rate: 14.4%
- Career Strikeout Rate: 17.4%
- Home Runs Allowed: 1.99 per nine innings
- First-Pitch Strike Rate: 56.9% (below league average of 62%)
Chivilli has shown promise with both his changeup and slider, showcasing impressive swinging-strike rates of 26.3% and 23.4%, respectively. However, his command issues have led to a significant number of pitches within the strike zone being contacted by opponents, with an alarming 78.4% contact rate.
Development Potential
The Yankees see potential in Chivilli, particularly if they can unlock more of his swing-and-miss capabilities. His remaining minor league option allows New York to send him to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre for development if needed. Currently, Chivilli has 1.036 years of MLB service time, making him controllable for at least five more seasons.
T.J. Rumfield’s Move to Colorado
In return, T.J. Rumfield, a 25-year-old first baseman, joins the Rockies after a strong stint in the Yankees’ minor league system. In the 2025 season, Rumfield hit .285 with 16 home runs and demonstrated an impressive .378 on-base percentage. This solid performance showcases his hitting abilities as he transitions to a new opportunity in Colorado.
- 2025 Stats: .285/.378/.447 with 16 home runs
- Stolen Bases: 5 in 7 attempts
- Walk Rate: 11.9%
- Strikeout Rate: 18.4% (lower than average)
Rumfield was previously blocked at first base with the Yankees, but with the Rockies, he has a genuine opportunity to earn a starting role. His performance in spring training will be critical, especially as Colorado looks to improve its first base production.
Challenges for the Rockies
The Rockies’ first base position has struggled significantly, posting a dismal .211 batting line in 2025. Players like Michael Toglia faced challenges, exacerbating the team’s need for improvement. Rumfield’s arrival could provide a necessary upgrade, as he brings both offensive potential and solid defensive skills to the lineup.
This trade emphasizes both teams’ strategies as they navigate their rosters heading into the upcoming season. Fans will be watching closely to see how Chivilli adapts with the Yankees and how Rumfield asserts himself with the Rockies.
