Yankees’ Williams Struggles In Closer Role, Boone Hints At Potential Change
Devin Williams is having a rough start with the Yankees, and manager Aaron Boone might be considering a change in his role.
The two-time All-Star closer, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers as part of New York’s response to losing Juan Soto to the Mets, has posted an alarming 11.25 ERA through 10 appearances. He’s already surrendered 10 earned runs — dangerously close to his career-high of 15 for an entire season.
When asked by reporters if Williams might benefit from pitching in lower-leverage situations, Boone’s response was notably noncommittal.
“We’ll see,” Boone said, according to The Athletic’s Chris Kirschner.
That’s not exactly a ringing endorsement for someone brought in to lock down the ninth inning.
What makes this situation particularly frustrating for the Yankees is Williams’ track record. He’s not just a good reliever — he’s elite when right. The two-time National League Trevor Hoffman Award winner has proven he can be one of baseball’s most dominant closers.
But something isn’t clicking in the Bronx.
Williams does have four saves this season, but the underlying numbers tell a more concerning story. His current trajectory would shatter his previous season-worst for runs allowed.
The Yankees have options if they decide to make a change. Luke Weaver could step into the closer role while Williams sorts things out. It wouldn’t be unfamiliar territory for Williams, who excelled as Josh Hader’s setup man in Milwaukee before taking over closing duties.
The way I see it, a temporary role adjustment might be exactly what Williams needs. Moving him to lower-leverage situations could help him rebuild confidence and rediscover his dominant form without the ninth-inning pressure.
All things considered, the Yankees didn’t trade for Williams to be a middle reliever. But right now, preserving wins might mean making a difficult decision about their struggling closer.
