Yankees Land Devin Williams in Blockbuster Trade with Brewers
The New York Yankees are making waves this offseason, pulling off a major trade to bolster their bullpen. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Yankees are acquiring two-time All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In return, the Yankees are sending left-hander Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations to Milwaukee. This move signals New York’s determination to shore up their bullpen after a disappointing 2024 season.
Who is Devin Williams?
If you’re not familiar with Devin Williams, it’s time to get acquainted. Over the last five seasons, Williams has cemented himself as one of the most dominant relievers in Major League Baseball. His secret weapon? A devastating changeup nicknamed “The Airbender,” which has baffled hitters and earned him a reputation as one of the league’s elite closers. Since his MLB debut in 2019, Williams has posted a jaw-dropping 1.83 ERA across 97 relief appearances, racking up 68 saves along the way.
Williams’ breakout moment came in 2020, during the COVID-shortened season, when he allowed just one earned run in 22 games. That performance earned him the National League Rookie of the Year Award, a rare feat for a relief pitcher. Despite battling injuries in 2024, including a stress fracture in his back that sidelined him for four months, Williams returned in late July and didn’t miss a beat. He posted a 1.25 ERA with 14 saves in 22 games, proving he’s still one of the best in the business.
Why the Yankees Needed This Move
The Yankees’ bullpen has been in flux, and this trade addresses a glaring need. With Clay Holmes departing in free agency and the potential loss of Tommy Kahnle, New York was desperate for a reliable closer. Enter Devin Williams, who will immediately slot into the back end of the bullpen and provide the Yankees with a proven, high-leverage arm.
For Yankees fans, this trade is a clear signal that the front office is serious about contending in 2025. After falling short of expectations last season, the team is looking to retool and make another run at a championship. Adding Williams to the mix could be the first of several moves aimed at strengthening the roster.
What the Brewers Get in Return
On the flip side, the Brewers are getting a solid package in return for their star closer. Nestor Cortes has been a reliable left-handed starter for the Yankees, and his quirky delivery and ability to eat innings should make him a valuable addition to Milwaukee’s rotation. Meanwhile, Caleb Durbin, an infield prospect, adds depth to the Brewers’ farm system. While the Brewers are giving up an elite closer, they’re getting pieces that could help them in the long run.
Williams’ Brewers Career Ends on a Sour Note
While Williams’ time in Milwaukee was largely successful, it ended on a disappointing note. In Game 3 of the NL Wild Card Series against the New York Mets, Williams surrendered four runs in two-thirds of an inning, including a go-ahead three-run homer to Pete Alonso in the ninth inning. That outing ultimately sealed the Brewers’ fate and marked the end of Williams’ tenure in Milwaukee.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the Yankees, this trade is a win-now move. They’re betting that Williams can help them lock down close games and push them back into contention. For the Brewers, it’s a chance to retool and add depth to their roster. Only time will tell which team comes out ahead in this deal, but one thing is certain: Devin Williams is heading to the Bronx, and Yankees fans have every reason to be excited.
Key Takeaways
- The Yankees are acquiring closer Devin Williams from the Brewers.
- Williams has a career 1.83 ERA and 68 saves since debuting in 2019.
- The Brewers receive Nestor Cortes, Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations in return.
- Williams will fill a major void in the Yankees’ bullpen after the departure of Clay Holmes.
- Both teams are taking calculated risks with this trade, but the Yankees are clearly in win-now mode.
As the offseason heats up, this trade could be just the beginning of a busy winter for both teams. Stay tuned, because the Yankees and Brewers might not be done making moves just yet.
Originally Written by: Jeff Passan
