in 2018, yates began the season as the setup man to closer brad hand. he briefly went to the disabled list in early april with an ankle injury, but returned after two weeks. at the trade deadline, the padres traded hand, thus handing over the closer role to yates. he ended the season with a career low 2.14 era in 65 appearances. he was 12 for 13 in save opportunities and struck out 90 in 63 innings.