The New York Yankees have finalized a significant trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, acquiring All-Star closer Devin Williams, the team announced on Friday. In return, the Brewers will receive left-handed starter Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations.
At 30 years of age, Williams is looking to rebound after a season in 2024 that was marred by injuries, though he still managed an impressive 1.25 ERA and 38 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings. As he approaches a pivotal walk year in 2025, the Yankees gain one year of team control with this acquisition.
Throughout his six seasons in the MLB, all spent with the Brewers, Williams has established himself as one of the top closers in the game, boasting an outstanding ERA+ of 232 and a FIP of 2.39. His ability to strike out 39.4% of batters is remarkable, and he has consistently posted sub-2.00 ERAs over the past three years. Known for his blistering fastball and elite changeup, Williams will add significant strength to the Yankees’ bullpen.
However, he has faced several health challenges during his career, including a stress fracture in his back that sidelined him for four months last season. Past injuries also include shoulder and calf issues, as well as time missed due to elbow discomfort and a hand fracture. His peak performance came in 2022, where he pitched a career-high of 60 2/3 innings.
The Yankees’ recent acquisition of Max Fried has given them the depth needed in their rotation to pursue this trade, especially after Clay Holmes signed with the Mets, creating a vacancy for a high-leverage bullpen arm.
On the Brewers’ side, they gain a reliable left-handed starter in Cortes, who has swingman potential. Now 30 years old, Cortes has experienced success, with a career ERA+ of 110 and a FIP of 4.10 across 86 starts and 49 relief appearances. His performance last season included a solid 3.77 ERA over 174 1/3 innings; Cortes is also arbitration-eligible for the last time in 2025 before becoming a free agent.
The Brewers also received Caleb Durbin, a promising 24-year-old infielder. Durbin has demonstrated versatility, posting a slash line of .269/.374/.407 over four minor-league seasons, alongside 110 stolen bases in 281 games and a commendable plate discipline record with more walks than strikeouts. After reaching Triple-A last season, he impressed in the Arizona Fall League and primarily played at second base.
In summary, the Yankees look to bolster their bullpen with the addition of Devin Williams while the Brewers acquire valuable pieces that could help build for the future. This trade showcases both teams’ strategies to enhance their rosters for upcoming seasons, signaling an exciting period for baseball fans.
This trade could be seen as a pivotal moment for both teams, as the Yankees aim for postseason success and the Brewers look toward the future while remaining competitive.