Williams: Thought I was being dealt to Dodgers before Yankees trade
All-Star closer Devin Williams thought he was joining the Los Angeles Dodgers before the New York Yankees struck a deal to acquire him from the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Dodgers were reportedly showing strong interest in the right-hander, but the Yankees "snuck in there under the table and got the deal done," Williams said, per MLB.com's Bryan Hoch.
The Yankees traded left-hander Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin to the Brewers for Williams on Dec. 13.
Williams is projected to earn $7.7 million in his final year of arbitration and is expected to become a free agent at the conclusion of the 2025 campaign.
Williams said discussing a contract extension with the Yankees is “definitely an option” if it makes sense for both sides.
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The 30-year-old ranks among the league leaders for relief pitchers in ERA (1.70), K/9 (14.64), and fWAR since the start of the 2020 season. Williams put together another excellent season in 2024 after missing the first half with a back injury, posting a 1.25 ERA, 15.78 K/9, and 14 saves in 22 appearances.
"It's a tremendous honor to be able to play for this organization," Williams said of joining the Yankees, according to SNY. "There's no bigger team in baseball, so I'm very happy to be here."
Williams will join 2024 breakout star Luke Weaver to form a strong duo at the back of the bullpen for the Yankees.