The Yankees have made a major move to strengthen their bullpen, acquiring elite reliever Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In exchange, New York sent left-hander Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin to Milwaukee, marking a significant shift in their roster.
A Game-Changing Addition
Williams, famous for his devastating “Airbender” changeup, steps in as the Yankees’ new closer, addressing a key need after the departure of Clay Holmes. While Holmes had flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency in pressure situations was a concern. Williams, however, has been nearly unhittable when healthy. Though injuries limited him to just 21.2 innings last season, he dominated when available, posting a 1.25 ERA, an incredible 15.78 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 92.6% left-on-base rate.
Since assuming Milwaukee’s closing role in 2021, Williams has consistently delivered, never posting an ERA above 2.00. His $8.6 million arbitration salary makes him a tremendous value, and if he stays healthy, he could be one of the Yankees’ most impactful acquisitions.
The “Airbender” Joins the Bronx Bombers
Williams’ changeup is widely regarded as one of the most unhittable pitches in baseball. He relies on it nearly half the time, averaging 84.4 mph with an astonishing 42.3 inches of vertical drop and 19.4 inches of horizontal movement. Opposing hitters struggled mightily against it last season, managing just a .162 batting average and a .216 slugging percentage.
Even Yankees manager Aaron Boone was impressed after seeing Williams throw in a bullpen session. “I told him today, it was my first time standing behind that thing—it’s impressive,” Boone said.
The Cost of a Star Closer
To acquire Williams, the Yankees parted with Cortes, a fan favorite known for his deceptive windup and unorthodox delivery. However, with the recent addition of Max Fried, New York felt comfortable moving Cortes given their strong starting rotation.
Durbin, who was in contention for playing time at second base, was also included in the deal. The Yankees plan to shift Jazz Chisholm to second while keeping third base open for internal competition or a potential midseason upgrade.
A Short-Term Rental?
Williams is entering the final year of arbitration and will become a free agent next offseason. If he continues his dominance, he will be in line for a lucrative contract. The Yankees, however, have the financial resources to retain him long-term if he proves to be the elite closer they envision.
For now, New York will relish having one of the game’s premier relievers anchoring the bullpen, knowing they have a true shutdown arm ready to lock down the ninth inning.
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