The Milwaukee Brewers made headlines this MLB offseason with a blockbuster trade, sending two-time All-Star closer Devin Williams to the New York Yankees. In exchange, the Brewers acquired left-handed starting pitcher Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Caleb Durbin. The deal reflects Milwaukee’s decision to manage its payroll strategically while preparing for the future.
The primary motivation behind trading Williams was financial. With Williams set to become a free agent after the 2025 MLB season, the Brewers were unwilling to meet the high price tag he would likely command. The trade not only avoided a potentially hefty future contract but also reduced the team’s payroll for the upcoming season. Williams signed a one-year deal with the Yankees worth $8.6 million, while Cortes inked a one-year, $7.6 million contract with the Brewers. Both players are set to become free agents after the 2025 season.
Williams’ performance last season was a mixed bag due to injuries. Stress fractures in his back sidelined him for several months, but when he returned, he delivered electric performances with a 1-0 record, a 1.25 ERA, and 14 saves. However, his postseason struggles, including a game-winning three-run homer surrendered to Pete Alonso in the Wild Card series, added complexity to his tenure in Milwaukee.
During Williams’ absence, the Brewers turned to Trevor Megill, whose 100 mph fastball helped stabilize the closer role. Megill posted a 1-3 record with a 2.72 ERA and recorded 21 saves for the season. With Williams now in New York, Megill emerges as the likely candidate to take over as Milwaukee’s full-time closer in 2025. However, the Brewers might still explore additional options to bolster their bullpen.
One intriguing free-agent candidate is Kirby Yates, a two-time All-Star who recently delivered a stellar season with the Texas Rangers. In 2024, Yates posted a 7-2 record with a 1.17 ERA and 33 saves, reinforcing his reputation as a dependable reliever. Curt Bishop of Sports Illustrated has suggested that Yates could be a valuable addition for Milwaukee, noting that his veteran presence would strengthen the back end of the bullpen. While Yates will turn 38 in March, he remains an effective closer and could bring leadership and stability to the Brewers’ pitching staff.
Yates’ market value is estimated at $6 million, a figure well within the Brewers’ budget if they choose to pursue him. With a proven track record, including an MLB-leading 41 saves during his 2019 All-Star season with the San Diego Padres, Yates could provide the depth and reliability Milwaukee seeks as they reconfigure their bullpen for the upcoming season.
