Mets Make Headlines: Devin Williams Joins the Team!

Devin Williams has signed a three-year deal with the Mets worth $51 million, despite some deferred payments reducing the present value. This includes a $6 million signing bonus and $15 million annual salaries, with $5 million deferred each season. If traded, there’s a $1 million bonus.

Williams, a former second-round pick of the Brewers in 2013, took time to shine. After a slow start as a starting pitcher, his career took off when he became a reliever in 2019. He quickly established himself as a top late-game option, boasting a 0.33 ERA in 2020, which earned him the National League Rookie and Reliever of the Year Awards.

He continued to excel, particularly in 2022, when he became the Brewers’ primary closer after Josh Hader was traded. Williams racked up 36 saves with a 1.53 ERA, winning his second Reliever of the Year title. However, he faced challenges in 2024, dealing with stress fractures in his back that limited his playtime.

His 2024 season concluded with a memorable, yet heartbreaking, moment when he gave up a crucial home run in the Wild Card Series. That game marked the end of his time with the Brewers, who traded him to the Yankees. The move generated high expectations, as many viewed him as one of the best relievers in the league.

However, his performance in New York was inconsistent. After a rough start, he lost his closer role but regained form later in the season. He ended up with a 4.79 ERA across 67 appearances, his highest to date. Despite this adversity, teams remain excited about Williams’ potential due to his impressive strikeout rate. He struck out nearly 40% of batters faced, ranking among the best in Major League Baseball.

Williams has two main pitches: a fastball averaging around 94 MPH and a unique screwball/changeup that keeps hitters off balance. Historically, this changeup has proven effective, with opponents batting below .200 against it throughout his career.

The Mets are banking on Williams returning to form. It’s a gamble, especially after his performance last season. However, many baseball experts argue that his struggles may have been an anomaly. Inconsistent metrics, like a high batting average on balls in play, indicate he might have been unlucky at times. In fact, only the past year shows evidence of such increased vulnerability.

The trend of prioritizing a pitcher’s potential over recent performance has emerged in contracts this offseason. For example, players like Dylan Cease and Ryan Helsley received substantial deals despite less-than-ideal recent stats, suggesting a growing confidence in bouncing back.

The Mets view Williams as a vital addition to their bullpen, with hopes he can step into a closing role if Edwin Díaz doesn’t return. The team’s payroll is projected to be significant, with expectations of exceeding luxury tax thresholds. This adds pressure on the front office to ensure that Williams significantly contributes after signing him for a hefty amount.

As the season approaches, both fans and analysts will be watching how Williams handles the pressures of New York and if he can reclaim his status among the league’s elite relievers.

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