Devin Williams Traded to Mets in $50 Million+ Deal After Yankees Stint
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A blockbuster move sees star reliever Devin Williams heading to the New York Mets after a brief period with the Yankees, in a deal reportedly guaranteeing over $50 million with no opt-out clauses for either party.
The 31-year-old Williams arrived in the Bronx prior to the 2025 season via trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, with the Yankees sending left-hander Nestor Cortes, infielder Caleb Durbin, and additional cash considerations to acquire the highly sought-after closer. While his time in New York was short-lived, it sets the stage for a potentially significant impact on the Mets’ pitching staff.
A Mixed Performance in the Bronx
Williams’ single season with the Yankees presented a study in contrasts. He registered a 4.79 ERA across 62 innings pitched, successfully converting 18 save opportunities. However, a mid-season loss of the closing role underscored the struggles of the Yankees’ bullpen to consistently protect late-game leads.
Despite the elevated ERA, Williams demonstrated continued dominance in his ability to record strikeouts. He finished the season with 90 strikeouts, boasting a 34.7% strikeout rate that ranked ninth among all qualified relievers. Notably, he also achieved his lowest walk rate since 2020, indicating a refined approach to pitching. His postseason performance further highlighted his potential, allowing just three hits and no runs in four of the team’s seven playoff games.
Decorated Career with the Brewers
Prior to joining the Yankees, Williams established himself as one of the premier relievers in baseball during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers. He earned two All-Star selections in both 2022 and 2023, and was twice named the National League Reliever of the Year in 2020 and 2023. He also secured the prestigious NL Rookie of the Year award in 2020.
Throughout his career, Williams has maintained a stellar 2.45 ERA, compiling a 31-16 record and 86 saves. This impressive track record undoubtedly contributed to the significant investment made by the Mets.
Questions Remain Regarding the Mets’ Closer Role
The Mets have long been anchored by star closer Edwin Diaz, who has excelled in the ninth inning for the majority of the past seven seasons, with the exception of the 2023 season which he missed. However, Diaz currently remains a free agent, leaving the Mets with a crucial decision regarding their bullpen hierarchy.
It remains unclear whether Williams will immediately assume the closer role in Queens, or if the Mets will pursue a reunion with Diaz, positioning Williams as a key setup man. “The flexibility to have either a dominant closer or a shutdown setup man is a luxury any team would want,” a senior official stated. The Mets’ front office faces a strategic choice that will significantly shape their pitching strategy moving forward.
