New York Yankees reliever Devin Williams is a free agent this winter, and he should be in line for a short-term contract to help rebuild his reputation.
Williams got traded to the Yankees last winter, with the Bronx Bombers hoping to add a high-leverage closer to their bullpen.
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Since the 2020 season, Williams has been an elite reliever for five years with the Milwaukee Brewers, posting a 1.83 ERA during his six years as a bullpen option.
He managed to make two All-Star teams, won Rookie of the Year back in 2020, and has even gotten a couple of MVP votes.
With the Yankees, however, he had a 4.79 ERA in 67 appearances, posting an 85 ERA+ and seeing his stuff not look as lively as it had at its best.
Additionally, he had never posted an ERA+ lower than 115, sitting well above for the entirety of his career. His FIP this season was 2.68, showing that he was not absolutely horrendous, and defense did play a part in his charged runs.
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At the age of 30, he will enter the market on the low end of his value, where teams with the most money will likely be hesitant to give him a long-term deal.
He could, however, get a big-money, one-year deal that would allow him to re-enter free agency next winter.
In fact, Tim Britton of The Athletic projects that he will get a one-year, $18 million contract during free agency. The Yankees could be interested in bringing him back, and Williams would be open to the deal.
“At first it was a challenge, but I’ve grown to love being here,” Williams said. “I love this city. I love taking the [subway] train to the field every day. I really enjoyed my experience here. … There’s a lot to like about this city, but it took me some time to adjust.”
There aren’t many high-profile relivers on the market. Edwin Díaz, Robert Suarez, Raisel Iglesias, and Ryan Helsley should all be available.
However, Williams will likely earn more than Iglesias and Helsley, falling below Diaz or Suarez for the top spot.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets could potentially be in the market for a high-leverage reliever, along with the Boston Red Sox.
Regarding his free agent decision, Williams said he would be interested in retaining his closer role, though he admitted to some flexibility for the proper suitor.
“I feel like it depends on the scenario,” Williams said.
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