Yankees Acquire All-Star Closer Devin Williams from Brewers in Trade

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The New York Yankees have finalized a trade to acquire All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Milwaukee Brewers. In exchange, the Yankees are sending left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin to Milwaukee. This trade marks a significant move for both teams, with the Yankees bolstering their bullpen while the Brewers address their starting rotation needs.

Devin Williams, known for his "Airbender" pitch, is one of the most dominant closers in baseball when healthy. He recorded 14 saves with a 1.25 ERA in 22 games during the 2024 season, despite dealing with two stress fractures in his back that limited his appearances. Williams' acquisition is expected to solidify the Yankees' bullpen, which was an area of concern after the departure of Clay Holmes to the New York Mets.

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Nestor Cortes, who had a strong 2024 season with a 3.77 ERA and 174 1/3 innings pitched, will now join the Brewers' rotation. The Brewers are looking to strengthen their starting pitching depth, especially with the departure of several key pitchers from their 2024 roster. Caleb Durbin, a promising infield prospect, will provide the Brewers with a potential long-term solution at second base, especially with Gleyber Torres' expected departure from the Yankees.

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The trade has been well-received by analysts, who see it as a strategic move for both teams. The Yankees are expected to have a formidable bullpen with Williams as the closer, while the Brewers gain a reliable starter and a promising infielder to strengthen their roster.