After a challenging initial season in New York, Devin Williams is aiming for improved outcomes in a new city.
The reliever, who was traded from Milwaukee to the Bronx a year ago and soon lost his closer position with the Yankees, is set to join the Mets, as confirmed by sources.
The 31-year-old free agent has reportedly signed a three-year, $45 million deal, with some payment deferred, according to reports.
This change represents a shift for Williams, who was anticipated to secure the closer role with the Yankees following a standout performance with the Brewers. Unfortunately, he struggled and was stripped of the job twice, ultimately losing it permanently at the trade deadline when David Bednar was acquired.
His move to Queens doesn’t necessarily spell the end for Edwin Diaz with the Mets. Diaz opted out of the final two years of his contract earlier in the offseason, making him a free agent. Still, the Mets have shown interest in retaining him, alongside Williams.
Diaz is having a strong year after completely recovering from a torn patella tendon that kept him sidelined for the 2023 season. However, with Diaz turning 32 in March, it’s unclear if the Mets will pursue a long-term deal.
Yet, Williams may not automatically be handed the ninth inning. His Mets story began with a pivotal home run given up to Pete Alonso during Game 3 of the 2024 Wild Card Series while with the Brewers.
After joining the Yankees, he initially struggled, being dropped from the closer role in April after posting an 11.25 ERA in his first ten games.
He managed to reclaim the closer position in early June but faced another hurdle.
Eventually, Williams found his footing and excelled in a setup role, particularly in September, where he pitched nine scoreless innings across nine games.
His postseason performance was also commendable.
Though he wrapped up the regular season with a disappointing 4.79 ERA—his worst yet—and a decline in strikeout rate, several advanced metrics suggest he may have just been unlucky.
The Mets are banking on Williams thriving under the pressure this time.
After the Yankees’ elimination in the ALDS by the Blue Jays, Williams expressed he was “definitely open to” returning to the Bronx, which isn’t too surprising for a potential free agent. He also articulated that he feels more ready for whatever challenges may arise in New York after spending six seasons in the smaller market of Milwaukee.
“This place has definitely been growing for me,” he mentioned regarding the Bronx, appreciating the fans’ commitment to winning.
When asked if adjusting took time, Williams noted, “It’s taken a little getting used to, but I think they’re fans and they just want to see their team win. That’s the job we have to do, and I’m definitely happy to do it.” It seems he has no intention of going back to the Yankees, though a stint with them might help ease his transition to Citi Field.
Williams’ acquisition fits into the Mets’ already active offseason, during which they’ve revamped their coaching staff and traded Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for Marcus Semien.
Additionally, Williams’ former rival, Alonso, remains a free agent.
The Mets are eager to recover from a historically tough loss and will likely seek further support for their rotation. Stearns remarked that “it was not the right thing to do” to field the same team post-Nimmo trade.
