Mets sign former Yankees closer and 2-time All-Star Devin Williams to 3-year contract

The New York Mets have finalized a three-year agreement with former Yankees closer and two-time All-Star Devin Williams, according to Yahoo Sports' Russell Dorsey. The Athletic and ESPN were the first to report the deal.

ESPN's Jeff Passan notes that the contract guarantees Williams more than $50 million. The 30-year-old pitcher gained recognition as one of baseball's top relievers during his six seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, where he earned two All-Star selections. Over his Brewers tenure, he posted a 1.83 ERA with 375 strikeouts and 112 walks across 235 2/3 innings, and recorded 68 saves in his final three seasons as closer.

Williams joined the Yankees last offseason via a major trade that sent pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr., infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash to Milwaukee. However, after a challenging season in New York, he will now move to the Mets, the Yankees' crosstown rivals.

During his stint with the Yankees, Williams struggled at the start of the season and temporarily lost his closing role after 10 games. He later returned to the closer position and finished the season with 18 saves in 62 innings, a 4.79 ERA, and a 1.129 WHIP. He also pitched four scoreless innings in the postseason, hinting at a return to form.

The Mets hope to see the best version of Williams in Queens, especially as veteran closer Edwin Daz is expected to leave in free agency after earning three All-Star selections, including last season. Daz is projected to command a high-value contract, while Williams is ranked 27th among free agents this winter, with Daz at 11th.

Author: Sophia Brooks