New York’s bullpen landscape is shifting as the Mets and Yankees continue too make moves this offseason. Reigning National League Reliever of the Year Devin williams is heading to the Mets, agreeing to a deal worth upwards of $50 million, according to reports. The acquisition fills a critical need for New York as they navigate an uncertain closer situation with Edwin Diaz still a free agent, and signals a potential reshaping of the late-inning strategy under manager Carlos Mendoza.
Devin Williams, the standout reliever recently with the New York Yankees, is heading to the New York Mets in a significant move for both teams. The deal, worth over $50 million, guarantees Williams’ services without any opt-out clauses for either party, according to reports.
Williams arrived in the Bronx prior to the 2025 season via a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he’d established himself as one of the league’s premier closers. The Brewers received left-hander Nestor Cortes, infielder Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations in return for the right-handed pitcher.
His single season in New York saw Williams post a 4.79 ERA across 62 innings, while still managing to secure 18 saves. Despite a mid-season shift in the closing role as the Yankees bullpen faced challenges protecting leads, Williams continued to showcase his impressive strikeout ability.
The 31-year-old struck out 90 batters, and his 34.7 percent strikeout rate ranked ninth among all qualified relievers, demonstrating his continued dominance despite the elevated ERA. He also recorded his lowest walk rate since 2020, signaling improved control.
Williams proved reliable in the postseason, allowing just three hits and no runs in four appearances during the Yankees’ playoff run. His performance offered a glimpse of the impact he can have in high-leverage situations.
Before joining the Yankees, Williams was a two-time All-Star (2022, 2023) and earned National League Reliever of the Year honors twice (2020, 2023) while with Milwaukee. He was also named NL Rookie of the Year in 2020, cementing his status as a rising star.
Throughout his career, Williams has compiled a 31-16 record with 86 saves and a 2.45 ERA, showcasing his consistent excellence on the mound. This track record makes him a valuable addition to any team’s bullpen.
The Mets have been anchored in the ninth inning by Edwin Diaz for the majority of the last seven seasons, with 2023 being the exception due to his absence. However, Diaz currently remains a free agent, leaving the closing situation in flux.
It remains to be seen whether Williams will immediately step into the closer’s role for the Mets, or if a potential reunion with Diaz could see Williams utilized as a key setup man. The Mets’ bullpen configuration will be one to watch as spring training approaches.
