Free agent relief pitcher Devin Williams has reached an agreement to join the New York Mets, according to a source familiar with the talks who spoke with The Associated Press on Monday evening. The source requested anonymity since the deal is pending a physical exam and has not been officially announced. Multiple media outlets report that the contract spans three years.
Last season with the New York Yankees, Williams recorded a 4-6 win-loss record with a career-high 4.79 ERA, converting 18 saves out of 22 opportunities. He struggled to consistently hold the closer role but ended the year strong with four scoreless outings in the American League playoffs.
The 31-year-old right-hander is a two-time All-Star and has twice claimed the Trevor Hoffman National League Reliever of the Year Award while playing for the Milwaukee Brewers. He was also honored as the 2020 National League Rookie of the Year.
Williams was traded from Milwaukee to the Yankees in December for pitcher Nestor Cortez and infielder Caleb Durbin. With the Mets, he could potentially replace free agent closer Edwin Diaz or serve alongside him in a revamped bullpen.
Notably, Williams was pitching for the Brewers when he gave up a game-winning home run to Mets slugger Pete Alonso in Game 3 of the 2024 National League Wild Card Series, which helped New York take the lead. Known for his deceptive changeup, Williams appeared in 67 games and pitched 62 innings last season with the Yankees, striking out 90 batters while issuing 25 walks.
Fan Take: Devin Williams joining the Mets is an exciting boost for their bullpen, injecting proven talent and experience. For baseball fans, this move signals the Mets’ serious commitment to strengthening their pitching staff, which could lead to some thrilling postseason runs.
