The New York Yankees’ offseason took a tough hit when Juan Soto was traded to the Mets, but the team quickly gained momentum with the additions of Max Fried, Devin Williams, and Paul Goldschmidt. Brian Cashman’s winter continued to stay on track with his latest move.
Williams has agreed to an $8.6 million contract for the 2025 season with the Yankees, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, avoiding an arbitration hearing.
New York acquired the two-time All-Star closer from the Milwaukee Brewers on December 13, sending lefty starter Nestor Cortes, infielder Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations in return. The deal energized the Yankees’ offseason while strengthening their bullpen.
Though the Yankees often boast one of the league’s top relief corps, the ninth inning has sometimes raised questions. Luke Weaver stepped up in 2024 after Clay Holmes struggled in the second half, but with his career history, he remains a potential regression risk. Williams adds the late-game stability that manager Aaron Boone needs.
Devin Williams checks a key box for Yankees
The seventh-year right-hander has posted back-to-back sub-2.00 ERAs in 2022 and 2023, and he was excellent last season after returning from a back injury, registering a 1.25 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 21 2/3 innings. While Williams’ brilliance may be hard to overlook following his crushing three-run homer allowed to Pete Alonso in Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series, he remains one of the game’s top closers.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is banking on Williams to excel both in the regular season and during the playoffs. Armed with his devastating change-up, known as the “Airbender,” Williams provides the Yankees with a vital weapon for high-pressure situations.
With the two-time Trevor Hoffman Reliever of the Year heading into free agency, Cashman will likely look to avoid losing him for nothing, though there’s still time for contract extension talks. For now, the primary focus is on capturing the 2025 World Series.
Adding a game-changing infielder like Alex Bregman, Ha-Seong Kim, or Nolan Arenado could make that championship run more attainable. Securing Williams, however, is a clear step in the right direction, and the mood at Yankee Stadium is certainly much brighter than it was just a month ago.
Leave a Reply