Yankees Shake Up Bullpen With Acquisition of All-Star Closer Devin Williams
In a significant move ahead of the upcoming MLB season, the New York Yankees have acquired All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. This trade sees the Yankees bolstering their bullpen with a player known for his remarkable ability to stymie opposing hitters, while the Brewers gain a promising package in return.
Williams Brings Elite Skills to New York
Devin Williams, at 30 years old, joins the Yankees with an impressive resume. Over six seasons with the Brewers, Williams achieved an ERA+ of 232 and a FIP of 2.39, cementing his status as one of the league's premier relievers. His strikeout rate is particularly eye-catching, with nearly 40% of opposing hitters being sent back to the dugout. His performance in the 2024 season was nothing short of dominant, posting a dazzling 1.25 ERA and 38 strikeouts across 21 2/3 innings.
However, Williams' path has not been without hurdles. Injuries have been a recurring challenge, with a stress fracture in his back sidelining him for four months last season, along with shoulder, calf, elbow, and hand issues. Despite these setbacks, his capabilities remain unquestioned, and the Yankees are betting on his durability as they head into what could be a pivotal season for both Williams and the franchise. Williams will be in his walk year for the 2025 season, with just one year of team control left, adding urgency to the Yankees’ win-now strategy.
Brewers' Return: Cortes, Durbin, and Cash
On the other end of the transaction, the Milwaukee Brewers receive left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes, infielder Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations. Cortes, also 30, offers a versatile pitching option for the Brewers. Known for his reliability, last season saw him pitch 174 1/3 innings with a solid 3.77 ERA. His career statistics, including an ERA+ of 110 and an FIP of 4.10 over numerous starts and relief appearances, highlight his adaptability and potential value for Milwaukee's pitching staff.
Cortes is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, as he enters the final year of arbitration eligibility. His presence will be closely watched as the Brewers consider their future pitching strategies.
Joining Cortes is Caleb Durbin, a 24-year-old infielder with a promising track record in the minors. Durbin has compiled a career slash line of .269/.374/.407, recording 110 stolen bases over 281 games. Notably, Durbin has demonstrated disciplined plate appearances, boasting more walks than strikeouts. His rise through the ranks saw him reach Triple-A last season, and he showcased his talent in the Arizona Fall League. As a 14th-round pick from Washington University in St. Louis, Durbin represents a valuable developmental asset for the Brewers.
Yankees' Strategic Moves
The acquisition of Williams is part of a broader strategy by the Yankees to bolster both their bullpen and rotation. The loss of Clay Holmes to the Mets underscored the need for a durable and effective presence in the bullpen, and Williams fits that requirement. Additionally, the Yankees' signing of free agent Max Fried addresses their rotational depth, signaling a focused commitment to enhance pitching solutions across the board.
The trade highlights the Yankees’ intent to strengthen their squad heading into a competitive season, ensuring that any gaps from recent departures are covered by experienced and capable players. With Williams onboard, the Yankees’ bullpen is poised to present formidable challenges to rival teams, a move critical in their quest for postseason glory.
As the dust settles from this significant trade, the focus will shift to how these changes impact the dynamics of both the Yankees and the Brewers. For Devin Williams and Nestor Cortes, the upcoming season will provide opportunities to further leave their mark on new stages, pivotal not just for their personal career trajectories, but for the destinies of their respective teams.