The New York Yankees have officially announced the acquisition of reliever Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers, a move that underscores their commitment to enhancing their pitching staff. In exchange, the Yankees are sending pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr., infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and some cash to the Brewers.
Williams, who is 30, had an impressive season with 14 saves in just 22 appearances. Although he spent the first three months of the previous season recovering from a stress fracture in his back, upon his return, he excelled, allowing only three earned runs over 21 and 2/3 innings. His postseason experience included two appearances, during which he faced criticism for conceding a pivotal home run to Pete Alonso, which contributed to the Mets’ series-clinching victory.
This trade comes after the Brewers declined Williams’ $10.5 million option for 2025, leaving him entering his last arbitration season. A two-time NL All-Star and the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year, Williams has established himself as a reliable closer during his six years with the Brewers, having accumulated 68 saves with an impressive 1.83 ERA and 1.02 WHIP.
By adding Williams, alongside the anticipated return of Jonathan Loáisiga from Tommy John surgery, the Yankees are set to strengthen their bullpen significantly. However, as the team moves forward, it remains unclear whether manager Aaron Boone will designate Williams or Luke Weaver as the primary closer for the 2025 season. With Clay Holmes departing for the New York Mets, the Yankees have recognized the need to solidify their closing position.
Cortes has been a steady starter for the Yankees over the past four seasons, but the signing of ace Max Fried indicated that adjustments were necessary within the rotation. This latest trade exemplifies the Yankees’ strategy to bolster their pitching assets and marks a proactive step following their considerable investment in Fried, who secured an eight-year, $218 million contract.
Meanwhile, the Brewers have a history of trading away high-profile players like Josh Hader and ace Corbin Burnes. Despite parting with Williams, they seem to have faith in their ability to unearth high-quality relief talent, as seen in Trevor Megill, who gathered 21 saves last season and could emerge as a key closer in the future.
This trade allows the Brewers to reallocate resources to their starting rotation, reflecting their ongoing commitment to competing for the NL Central title. Aid from Cortes could prove beneficial in providing the necessary innings as they aim to maintain their status as a playoff contender.
Overall, this trade appears to set both teams on a promising trajectory, with the Yankees enhancing their bullpen and the Brewers investing in their rotation. With strategic moves like these, both organizations demonstrate a clear vision for sustainable success in the future.