The Yankees had lofty ambitions when they traded for All-Star closer Devin Williams in an offseason blockbuster. A pitcher with a devastating changeup and unflinching dominance in the late-innings, Williams was to be an integral component in the Yankees’ ‘pen. However, the early weeks of the 2025 MLB season are working against the expectations set for the right-hander.
Early Struggles With The Mound
Devin Williams began his Yankee career in rather unfashionable style, to say the least, as one of the most feared relievers in the National League. First eight outings, Williams’ ERA was above 6.00, as he gave up multiple runs during high-leverage situations, including two blown saves.
His own changeup had little movement and was mostly inconsistent. Analysts noted that his pitching simply was not on the point leading to more contact and fewer strikeouts- hardly a calming argument for a reliever who prides himself on precision and deception.
Pressure Of The New York Market
Adapting to pressure in the New York lights is a challenge any athlete would face, and the same goes for Williams. The Yankee fans and the media have the highest expectations, especially when it comes to high-profile acquisitions.
“Coming to a new team, especially one like the Yankees, it takes time to get comfortable,” he said after one of his recent outings. “I know I’m not performing the way I should be, but I believe I’ll turn it around.”
His coach and fellow players have headed in his defense saying that poor performances early in the season can be misleading and that they have complete confidence in him to turn it around.
A legacy of achievement
Despite a slow start, one must never forget the illustrious history of Devin Williams. The man won the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year honors and has kept consistent, high numbers with the Milwaukee Brewers up until this point, just before signing with the Yankees. In all full seasons before 2025, his ERA never hit above 2.50, and he was considered one of the most sturdy arms of the league.
Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake is collaborating along with Williams to get to the problem. “We’re reviewing mechanics, pitch sequencing, and mental approach. It’s early, and we’re confident Devin will regain his form,” Blake said.
Forward Thinking
While Devin Williams’ early performance has raised eyebrows, the Yankees are not panicking. They see it as an adjustment period and believe that with time, he will revert to the dominating force they envisioned.
Long season ahead, they are still working with him toward adapting and succeeding in every sense. A new catcher, new coaching staff, and a new league are among other factors that can all affect a pitcher’s comfort level.
If the Yankees expect to go deep into the postseason, they will need him at his best. For the time being, it is about consistent improvement and getting Devin Williams back to the elite level that earned him his reputation.
Conclusion:
Definitely too soon to jump to conclusions about the overall status of Devin Williams in New York. It has not gone unnoticed that he has faced some struggles, but equally noticeable is his resolve to push through them. Supported by the Yankees organization and proven talent, Williams has proven to be a crucial part of plans in the bullpen for the team.
Going by the past, it isn’t too long before Devin Williams succumbs to this unfortunate start and rescues what would be known as ‘the relief innings’.
