Yankees Acquire Devin Williams in Blockbuster Trade with Brewers

The New York Yankees have finalized a blockbuster trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, acquiring star closer Devin Williams in exchange for left-handed starter Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations. This trade comes as the Yankees look to bolster their bullpen after losing Clay Holmes to the Mets in free agency.


Williams, a two-time All-Star, is known for his "Airbender" pitch, which closely resembles a screwball but is thrown with the arm action of a change-up. Despite an injury-compromised 2024 season, Williams posted an impressive 1.25 ERA with 38 strikeouts in 21 2/3 innings. The Yankees are acquiring him with one year of team control remaining, making him a valuable addition to their pitching staff.


In return, the Brewers will receive Nestor Cortes, who had a reliable season with the Yankees despite dealing with injuries. Cortes finished the 2024 season with a 9-10 record and a 3.77 ERA in 174 1/3 innings. Caleb Durbin, a promising second baseman, will also head to Milwaukee after an impressive showing in the Arizona Fall League.