The New York Yankees have a tough decision to make regarding reliever Devin Williams.
After being traded to the Yankees from the Milwaukee Brewers before last season, Williams experienced a dramatic decline in production resulting in the worst season of his Major League career. In 2025, Williams posted a 4-6 record with a 4.79 ERA, with 18 saves and four blown saves.
Williams was removed from the closer’s role multiple times throughout the season, losing it to Luke Weaver at one point, and then again to David Bednar after he was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates. After he was taken out of the closer’s role, Williams started to regain at least a portion of his former dominant self.
Nonetheless, with Williams now entering free agency, many have questioned whether or not the Yankees should bring him back. Alexander Wilson of Empire Sports Media thinks they should, offering him a one-year qualifying offer in the $21 million range.
“That figure might sound steep for a relief pitcher coming off an inconsistent year, but context matters — and so does upside,” Wilson said. “Even with the inconsistency, Williams remains one of the most talented relievers in the game. When his mechanics are locked in, few pitchers can match his late movement or his ability to make hitters look foolish.”
With many key figures from the 2025 season now on the open market, the Yankees will evaluate all of their options for 2026, and Williams could be a part of those plans despite a disastrous first year in the Bronx.