Yankees acquire Devin Williams from Brewers:- Today News

Yankees Finalize Trade for Brewers’ Closer Devin Williams

The New York Yankees have completed a major trade, acquiring star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers, according to reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan and The Athletic’s Will Sammon.

This blockbuster deal sees left-hander Nestor Cortes heading to Milwaukee, along with infield prospect Caleb Durbin and some cash considerations from the Yankees, as noted by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale and MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch.

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Key Details of the Trade

Both Williams and Cortes are entering their final seasons of club control and were projected to earn $7.7 million each in 2025, per MLB Trade Rumors contributor Matt Swartz. While the Brewers will come out slightly ahead financially, thanks to the Yankees sending cash as part of the deal, the trade aligns with Milwaukee’s tight offseason budget.

Caleb Durbin, a promising second baseman with experience at third base, was recently added to the Yankees’ 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. He is expected to be a key infield piece for Milwaukee in 2025.

With Durbin’s arrival, one of the Brewers’ current infielders—Brice Turang or Joey Ortiz—is likely to transition to shortstop, filling the void left by Willy Adames, who signed with the San Francisco Giants earlier this offseason.

Devin Williams: A Dominant Closer

Williams, 30, has established himself as one of Major League Baseball’s most elite relievers. The 2020 National League Rookie of the Year boasts a career 1.83 ERA with 68 saves, 60 holds, and an eye-popping 39.4% strikeout rate.

His signature pitch, the “Airbender” changeup, is devastating, limiting opponents to a meager.139 batting average and a.223 on-base percentage. The pitch’s 23% swinging-strike rate is among the highest in baseball.

Since his MLB debut in 2019, Williams has consistently outperformed nearly every other reliever. Among pitchers with at least 200 innings during that span, only Emmanuel Clase (1.67) has a better ERA. Williams’ 14.24 win probability added (WPA) also leads all relievers, emphasizing his impact in high-leverage situations.

Nestor Cortes’ Role in Milwaukee

Cortes, affectionately known as “Nasty Nestor,” has been a fan favorite in New York thanks to his crafty pitching and stellar performances. In Milwaukee, he will bring a reliable arm to the rotation or bullpen, depending on the Brewers’ needs.

His departure marks a significant shift for the Yankees, who have prioritized bolstering their bullpen with Williams’ arrival.

Implications for Both Teams

For the Yankees, adding Williams solidifies their bullpen with a proven closer, enhancing their chances in the highly competitive American League. Meanwhile, the Brewers gain financial flexibility and promising young talent to reinforce their infield and pitching depth.

This trade underscores both teams’ commitment to staying competitive while addressing their immediate needs.

This move will spark speculation about each team’s next steps as the offseason progresses. For now, though, both franchises appear to have made a deal aligning with their goals.