Devin Williams has been removed from his role as the Yankees’ closer after struggling in the first weeks of the season. Manager Aaron Boone revealed this change ahead of Sunday’s doubleheader against the Toronto Blue Jays, following Williams’ collapse in the ninth inning of a 4-2 defeat to Toronto two days prior.
“Devin has every opportunity and skill to excel. He’s in his peak years and is currently navigating a rough patch,” Boone explained. “I’ve always told our players that, over the course of a long career, challenges and adversity will arise. Fortunately for Devin, he possesses what it takes to push through and emerge stronger, which we fully expect him to achieve.”
Luke Weaver will take on the majority of the closing duties after stepping into that role last September when previous closer Clay Holmes had difficulties. Williams, on the other hand, will be utilized in less pressure-filled situations.
“We think it’s in everyone’s best interest to remove him from the closer role for now and focus on restoring his rhythm and confidence,” Boone stated.
Williams, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers in December in exchange for left-hander Nestor Cortes and infielder Caleb Durbin, has not found his footing with the Yankees, posting an 0-2 record with an 11.25 ERA and saving four out of five opportunities. In his debut, he was booed after the bases were loaded with no outs, even though he did secure a 4-2 win.
“Back in 2003, when I joined the team before the trade deadline, I remember even Mariano Rivera getting booed in August. It baffled me,” Boone recounted. “It’s a new setting for Devin, and settling down is part of the process. My message to him is that he holds all the capabilities to perform at an elite level. Adjusting to external pressures is part of life as a big leaguer.”
Boone sat down with Williams on Saturday to discuss the decision, a day when inclement weather postponed the game. “He was receptive during our conversation and ready to contribute in any capacity,” Boone remarked. “Even exceptional players face struggles, but I have faith that deep down, he knows he will overcome this challenge. It’s just tough for now.”
In the years from 2019 to 2024 with the Brewers, Williams was among baseball’s standout pitchers, achieving a 1.83 ERA, recording 68 saves from 78 opportunities, and averaging 14.39 strikeouts per nine innings while limiting opponents to a .156 batting average. However, this season, his numbers have dipped significantly with 9.0 strikeouts per nine innings and allowing a .343 batting average against him.
Last season, batters hit just .097 against his signature changeup, the “Airbender”. This year, that number has risen to .273. Opponents are also finding success against his fastball, hitting .462 versus last year’s .111.
“It’s evidently a tough transition in a new and bigger setting,” Boone acknowledged.
On another note, AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil has begun a throwing program after being sidelined since February due to a severe lat strain. “An essential progress marker,” Boone commented. Gil remains on the 60-day injured list and is expected to return in June at the earliest.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Loáisiga is back on a rehab assignment after an elbow surgery on April 12 last year. He pitched a flawless sixth inning, striking out one batter during a minor league game on Saturday, with hopes of rejoining the Yankees in late May or June.
Infielder DJ LeMahieu is also working his way back into play following a left calf strain in spring training. He participated in his fourth rehab game on Sunday with Double-A Somerset and is gradually taking on a larger role in the infield.