The New York Yankees made a bold move this offseason, acquiring star reliever Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers in a headline-grabbing trade.
But as the 2025 season has unfolded, Williams’ debut in pinstripes has been a supreme disappointment – and it may already be nearing its end.
Once considered one of baseball’s elite closers, Williams has stumbled badly in his first few months in the Bronx.
He lost his role as the team’s closer and carried an ERA north of 10.00 for much of the year.
Though his recent outings have shown flashes of his former dominance, speculation is already swirling about a potential trade.
The Sporting News floated the Philadelphia Phillies as a logical landing spot, especially in light of their bullpen concerns following the latest injury news regarding closer José Alvarado.
“The Yankees gave up Nestor Cortes and Caleb Durbin to acquire Williams. While he has struggled, he is showing some signs of life … When Williams is at his best, he is arguably the best closer in the game,” the report stated.
Williams’ struggles haven’t been erased by this short hot streak, but they’ve at least cooled the criticism.
Thanks to improved command and a rekindled ability to miss bats, Williams is once again racking up strikeouts – an encouraging trend whether the Yankees intend to keep him or not.
“However, that does not change the fact that he has not looked like himself for most of this season, and could leave in free agency. If the Yankees are comfortable with their bullpen without Williams, they could try to take advantage of the Phillies’ desperation and trade Williams,” the report added.
The Phillies, currently contending in the National League and facing growing uncertainty in the back end of their bullpen, could be a team willing to take the gamble.
If Williams finds his form, he would be a major asset down the stretch and into the postseason.
For the Yankees, the next few weeks could determine whether Williams is viewed as a reclamation success or a trade chip – and whether his time in New York is remembered for a bounce-back or a bust.
There’s no question Williams is pitching much better as of late.
The question is: Do the Yankees view him as a long-term piece to the puzzle? … If so, they’ll happily roll the dice and hope he can regain his old dominant form.
But if not, general manager Brian Cashman would be wise to trade him while his value is still high.
What are your thoughts on the speculation that the Devin Williams era in the Bronx could soon be coming to an end???
