Yankees are nearing an unexpected trade for the Brewers’ Star.

Yankees are nearing an unexpected trade for the Brewers’ Star.

In an unexpected move, the New York Yankees have demonstrated that their 2024-25 offseason isn’t solely dependent on the outcome of trade talks for Astros’ Kyle Tucker. On Friday, the Yankees reportedly finalized a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers to acquire All-Star closer Devin Williams, addressing a crucial need in their bullpen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The trade, according to Talkin’ Yanks’ Jake Storiale, sends left-handed starter Nestor Cortes Jr. and second base prospect Caleb Durbin to the Brewers. Durbin had been considered a potential contender for the Opening Day second base job, but this trade underscores Brian Cashman’s tendency to play his cards close to the chest, often pursuing subtle strategies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Williams, entering his final season before free agency, is a high-upside addition, with an ERA that has never exceeded 2.50 in a full season and a devastating changeup that stands out in the league. This trade could be seen as a “rental starter for rental closer, plus a prospect,” or it may expand further in the future.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Looking ahead, the Yankees now face the challenge of filling the second base position, which could lead them to pursue other options like Jorge Polanco, Brandon Lowe, or Alex Bregman, potentially moving Jazz Chisholm back to second. Their interest in this market remained strong as of Friday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The deal also reduces the likelihood of trading Luis Gil to the Astros, suggesting the Yankees may be planning to utilize their rotation depth differently. In the end, the Yankees have traded Clay Holmes for a closer with significant potential, setting the stage for more intriguing moves in the near future.