Yankees Land Closer Devin Williams in Blockbuster Trade

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The New York Yankees have made a significant move by acquiring All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In exchange, the Brewers receive left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes, top prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations. Here’s a closer look at the details and implications of this trade.


Who is Devin Williams?

Devin Williams is a two-time All-Star and one of the most dominant relief pitchers in Major League Baseball. Known for his elite changeup, nicknamed “The Airbender,” Williams has posted a remarkable 1.83 ERA in 97 career relief appearances.

Key Highlights:

  • 2020 Rookie of the Year: Williams won the National League Rookie of the Year Award after allowing just one earned run in 22 games during the shortened 2020 season.

  • Closer Role: After serving as a setup man to Josh Hader, Williams took over as the Brewers’ closer in 2023. He excelled with a 1.53 ERA and 36 saves across 61 games.

  • Comeback in 2024: Despite missing four months with a back injury, Williams returned to form, recording a 1.25 ERA with 14 saves in 22 games.

Yankees’ Bullpen Boost

The addition of Williams bolsters a Yankees bullpen that has undergone changes this offseason:

  • Clay Holmes departed via free agency.

  • Jonathan Loaisiga was recently re-signed.

  • Luke Weaver emerged as a key bullpen contributor in 2024.

While Williams is a marquee addition, he’s entering the final year of his contract and will become a free agent next winter. Yankees GM Brian Cashman indicated that no contract extension discussions have taken place yet.

“Just wanted to secure the opportunity, and then we’ll see where it takes us,” Cashman said.


Brewers’ Return Package

The Brewers’ decision to trade Williams was driven by financial considerations. Here’s what they gained in return:

Nestor Cortes

  • Career Highlights: Cortes is an experienced starter who was an All-Star in 2022 and a reliable rotation piece in 2024, posting a 3.77 ERA.

  • Injuries: While he battled injuries in 2023, Cortes returned strong in 2024 but ended the season on a sour note, giving up a walk-off grand slam in Game 1 of the World Series.

  • Contract Status: Like Williams, Cortes has one year remaining before hitting free agency.

Caleb Durbin

  • Unique Profile: A 5-foot-6 utility player who excels in multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, third base, and center field.

  • Speed Demon: Durbin has stolen 110 bases in his minor league career and set an Arizona Fall League record with 29 stolen bases in 2024.

  • Promising Future: Named the Arizona Fall League’s breakout prospect of the year, Durbin was on the cusp of his MLB debut with the Yankees and is expected to contribute to the Brewers in 2025.


Financial Motivation for Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s financial strategy played a significant role in this trade. The Brewers previously avoided arbitration with Williams by signing him to a $7.5 million deal in 2024 but declined his $10.5 million club option for 2025. Rather than face arbitration and risk losing him in free agency, the Brewers opted to trade him for valuable assets during the offseason.


Yankees’ Championship Aspirations

This trade underscores the Yankees’ commitment to competing for a championship in 2025. With the recent addition of ace pitcher Max Fried and now Devin Williams, the Yankees are strengthening their roster while navigating the complexities of the free-agent market.


Looking Ahead

The acquisition of Devin Williams marks a significant step for the Yankees, but questions remain:

  • Will the Yankees extend Williams’ contract?

  • Can Cortes stay healthy and deliver for the Brewers?

  • How will Caleb Durbin’s versatility impact Milwaukee?

This trade represents a win-now move for the Yankees while giving the Brewers assets to build for the future. Baseball fans will be watching closely to see how it unfolds.

 

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