The New York Yankees have completed a significant trade to bolster their bullpen by acquiring All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. The deal, which sends pitcher Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations to Milwaukee, showcases the Yankees' intent to strengthen their pitching depth both for the upcoming season and beyond.
Williams' Dominance and Challenges
Devin Williams, 30, is widely recognized as one of the league's top closers, boasting a remarkable career ERA+ of 232 and a FIP of 2.39 over six seasons with Milwaukee. His ability to strike out nearly 40% of opposing hitters has established him as a formidable force in the bullpen. In the 2024 season, Williams posted an outstanding ERA of 1.25, striking out 38 batters in just 21 2/3 innings, underlining his dominance on the mound.
Despite his undeniable talent, Williams has faced several physical challenges. He endured a stress fracture in his back, which sidelined him for four months last season. His injury history also includes shoulder, calf, elbow, and hand issues, raising questions about his durability as he enters his walk year in 2025, with one year of team control remaining.
Cortes Brings Experience to Brewers
Heading to Milwaukee is 30-year-old Nestor Cortes, a pitcher who has proven to be a reliable presence on the mound. Cortes is coming off a season where he posted an ERA of 3.77 over 174 1/3 innings. His career ERA+ stands at 110 with a FIP of 4.10, highlighting his effectiveness as both a starter and a reliever.
Cortes has 86 career starts and 49 relief appearances under his belt, and he is entering the final year of arbitration eligibility in 2025, after which he will become a free agent. The Brewers will likely benefit from his experience and versatility, whether in the starting rotation or out of the bullpen.
Prospect Durbin Offers Flexibility
Joining Cortes in Milwaukee is Caleb Durbin, a promising 24-year-old infielder with solid minor-league credentials. Durbin has compiled a slash line of .269/.374/.407 over four seasons, showcasing his ability to get on base and provide a balanced offensive threat. Perhaps most impressively, Durbin has more walks than strikeouts in his career, which could translate well to the major league level.
Durbin has proven himself a capable base runner, stealing 110 bases in 281 minor-league games. Having reached Triple-A last season and performed in the Arizona Fall League, the 14th-round pick from Washington University in St. Louis is poised to compete for a spot on the big league roster.
Yankees' Strategic Moves Continue
The acquisition of Williams comes as part of a larger strategy by the Yankees to address their pitching needs. The Yankees recently lost Clay Holmes to the Mets, creating a void in their bullpen that Williams could fill. Additionally, the team signed Max Fried, a move aimed at bolstering their rotation depth as they strive to remain competitive in a challenging division.
By adding Williams, the Yankees have not only secured a top-tier closer but also reinforced their commitment to fostering a robust bullpen that can endure the rigors of a long season. His proven track record, despite his history of injuries, offers a high-reward addition to a team eager to enhance its championship aspirations.
Simultaneously, the Brewers gain valuable assets in Cortes, who can immediately contribute, and Durbin, who offers potential for the future. The trade reflects a strategic exchange where both teams aim to address their respective areas of need while planning for sustained success.
As both teams prepare for the next season, this trade will undoubtedly be a key storyline in how each franchise positions itself for the challenges ahead. The Yankees' active involvement in reshaping their pitching staff is a testament to their pursuit of success and adaptability in the ever-evolving landscape of major league baseball.