Yankees Acquire Devin Williams in Blockbuster Trade with Brewers
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering their bullpen, the New York Yankees have completed a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers to acquire All-Star closer Devin Williams. The Yankees have delivered left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes, promising infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations to the Brewers in return.
Devin Williams: A Dominant Force with Injury Concerns
Devin Williams, at 30 years old, brings to the Yankees his remarkable track record as a dominant closer. With an ERA+ of 232 and a FIP of 2.39 over six seasons with Milwaukee, Williams boasts one of the most impressive profiles in the league. His strikeout rate, peaking at nearly 40% of opposing hitters, testifies to his effectiveness on the mound.
In the 2024 season, Williams delivered an outstanding ERA of 1.25 with 38 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings. This kind of performance underscores his value as a game-changer in the late innings. However, Williams' acquisition is not without its risks—his past season was marred by a stress fracture in his back, sidelining him for four months. Additionally plagued by shoulder, calf, elbow, and hand injuries, his health will be a key factor for the Yankees' medical staff to monitor closely.
Entering his walk year in 2025, Williams represents not only a short-term acquisition but also a potential long-term fit should the Yankees decide to negotiate a contract extension beyond his one year of team control.
Nestor Cortes: A Reliable Left-Hander Heads to Milwaukee
Nestor Cortes, also 30, finds himself heading to Milwaukee where he will be expected to provide stability in the Brewers' rotation. Last season, Cortes posted a notable ERA of 3.77 over 174 1/3 innings, demonstrating his capability as a dependable starter. Throughout his career, he has amassed an ERA+ of 110 and an FIP of 4.10, with his experience spanning 86 starts and 49 relief appearances.
Cortes is entering the final year of arbitration eligibility in 2025, after which he will become a free agent. His performance with the Brewers could dictate the trajectory of his career as he approaches free agency.
Caleb Durbin: A Young Talent with Speed and Plate Discipline
Joining Cortes in Milwaukee is 24-year-old Caleb Durbin, who has quickly risen through the ranks of the minor leagues. With a career slash line of .269/.374/.407, Durbin's speed and plate discipline are his standout features, as evidenced by his 110 stolen bases in 281 games, and a rare propensity for drawing more walks than striking out.
Durbin, who reached Triple-A status last season and played in the Arizona Fall League, was originally a 14th-round draft choice from Washington University in St. Louis. His continued development could provide significant depth for the Brewers' infield in the coming years.
Yankees' Broader Strategy and Future Outlook
This trade is part of a broader strategy by the Yankees to address their rotation and bullpen needs. The loss of Clay Holmes to the Mets spurred the Yankees to seek out reliable bullpen arms, and signing Max Fried as a free agent further highlights their commitment to building depth within their rotation.
With Williams in place, the Yankees now possess a formidable weapon in the bullpen, one that could play a pivotal role as the team chases postseason aspirations. The real test will be ensuring Williams maintains his health and continues his dominant performances without interruption.
As the 2025 season approaches, teams will be watching closely to see how these changes affect the Yankees' competitiveness and how Cortes and Durbin adapt to their new roles in Milwaukee.