The New York Yankees have made a significant move by acquiring relief pitcher Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In exchange, the Yankees will send pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr., infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and some cash to Milwaukee.
Devin Williams, 30, had an impressive season in 2024, registering 14 saves in just 22 appearances, although he missed the first three months due to a stress fracture in his back. Upon his return, Williams excelled, allowing only three earned runs over 21 2/3 innings. However, in the playoffs against the New York Mets, he faced challenges, notably giving up a crucial home run to Pete Alonso in Game 3.
Williams will enter his final arbitration season in 2025 after the Brewers declined his $10.5 million option for the 2025 season. A two-time NL All-Star and the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year, Williams has spent his entire six-year Major League Baseball career with the Brewers, amassing 68 saves and an impressive 1.83 ERA with a 1.02 WHIP.
The Yankees’ bullpen is set to become stronger with Williams’ arrival, especially combined with the return of Jonathan Loáisiga, who is coming back from Tommy John surgery. There remains uncertainty about whether Williams or Luke Weaver will take on the closer role in 2025, following Clay Holmes’ departure to the New York Mets.
Cortes has developed into a reliable starter for the Yankees over the past four seasons, but with the recent acquisition of Max Fried to a lucrative eight-year contract, his role became expendable. The Yankees have clearly prioritized bolstering their pitching lineup, recently committing significant resources to developing a strong rotation and bullpen.
Meanwhile, the Brewers’ strategy of trading away star pitchers while still maintaining competitiveness continues. Having previously dealt closer Josh Hader and ace Corbin Burnes, they will now look to Trevor Megill, who had a strong season with 21 saves in 2024, as a potential new closer.
While the deal marks a shift for both teams, it emphasizes the Yankees’ focus on enhancing their pitching staff in preparation for the upcoming season. For the Brewers, it signals a continued commitment to reallocating resources and maintaining their competitive edge in the NL Central.
This trade could lead to new opportunities for both teams. The Yankees are enhancing their chances for success by building a formidable pitching lineup, and the Brewers might discover new talent in the relief pitching role, fostering growth within their roster.
Overall, as both teams adjust their strategies, fans can look forward to an exciting season filled with potential and new beginnings for both franchises.