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5d ago

Yankees’ Closer Conundrum Deepens as Devin Williams Falters

Aaron Boone’s persistence with Williams after another blown save faces growing skepticism given Bednar’s reliable relief work

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 02: Devin Williams #38 of the New York Yankees throws a pitch during the eighth inning of the game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium on May 02, 2025 in New York City.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 27: Devin Williams #38 of the New York Yankees throws a pitch during the ninth inning of the game against the Athletics at Yankee Stadium on June 27, 2025 in New York City.
New York Yankees relief pitcher Devin Williams (38) pitches against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Devin Williams has posted an ERA above 5.00 and blew a save in Tuesday’s 2-0 loss to the Rangers, extending New York’s losing streak to five games.
  • Manager Aaron Boone has continued to deploy Williams in high-leverage eighth- and ninth-inning situations despite his recent struggles.
  • David Bednar has recorded a 2.66 ERA with a 32.5 percent strikeout rate over 40.2 innings and delivered a flawless inning against Texas, strengthening calls for him to assume the closer role.
  • The offseason trade that brought Williams from the Brewers cost the Yankees rookie infielder Caleb Durbin, who is hitting .262/.346/.369 with five homers and 38 RBIs in Milwaukee.
  • With Camilo Doval, Luke Weaver and Tim Hill also available, the Yankees’ bullpen depth creates options for reassigning Williams to lower-leverage work or promoting another reliever for late-game duties.