NEW YORK — Devin Williams narrowly achieved his first save for the New York Yankees, delivering a nail-biting performance.
The All-Star closer, who joined from Milwaukee in a December trade, quickly felt the pressure from Yankees fans after just 18 pitches in the iconic pinstripes.
“I definitely heard them,” Williams acknowledged.
Williams found himself in a precarious situation against his former Brewers teammates. With the bases loaded and no outs, he conceded a sacrifice fly to Brice Turang. However, he demonstrated resilience by striking out Jackson Chourio and Christian Yelich to secure a 4-2 victory for the Yankees on opening day.
“What impressed me was his composure,” remarked Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “He stayed focused and delivered when it counted.”
In December, the Yankees acquired the 30-year-old right-handed pitcher, trading popular pitcher Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and $2 million to Milwaukee. Knowing Williams preferred sporting a beard, the Yankees recently lifted their ban on facial hair, a policy dating back to 1976 initiated by owner George Steinbrenner. Williams’ advocacy played a part in this change.
Drafted by Milwaukee in 2013, Williams made his major league debut with them in 2019. The trade to New York marks his first experience pitching for another team.
“It was strange seeing all those familiar faces now as opponents,” Williams reflected on the opening ceremony.
Taking the mound with a 4-1 lead slightly after 6 p.m., Williams faced immediate challenges. Joey Ortiz singled, and Isaac Collins doubled on a promising changeup known as the Airbender. Jake Bauers, a pinch hitter, worked a walk after a seven-pitch battle. Boos grew louder when Williams fell behind in the count to Turang, before managing to force an out.
“It’s true there’s heightened scrutiny and expectations here, but I don’t let it affect me while pitching,” Williams stated.
Pitching coach Matt Blake and catcher Austin Wells offered encouragement on the mound.
“Stick to your game,” Wells reminded Williams. “His experience shows; he maintains his calm under stress.”
With Bauers advancing to second and Chourio striking out for an exhausting fifth time that game, Fernando Cruz warmed up in the bullpen, setting the stage for Yelich’s appearance.
“I’m low-key by nature,” Williams explained. “I knew I had to get this out.”
Facing the formidable 2018 NL MVP Yelich, Williams unleashed a decisive full-count fastball, marking the end of an energy-draining 36-pitch stint, his most extended since May 2022. Clocking in at 95.1 mph, it was his best pitch of the game.
“He proved why he’s one of the best closers,” Yelich complimented. “He found his pitch.”
Awarded the Yankees championship belt as the game’s standout player, Williams expressed relief.
“My control wasn’t its best today,” he admitted. “The Brewers had a solid strategy, making me earn every out. It was challenging facing those who know me best.”