Just In: Yankees bold move sends Devin Williams to Phillies in three-player intriguing move

The New York Yankees made a high-profile move by acquiring Devin Williams this offseason, but it hasn’t gone as planned.

Originally brought in to be the team’s closer, Williams struggled and lost the role less than two months into the season. Now, MLB analyst Garrett Kerman from ClutchPoints has suggested a trade sending Williams to the Philadelphia Phillies, who are in need of a closer.

Proposed Trade:

Yankees receive:

• Jordan Viars

• Andrew Baker

Phillies receive:

• Devin Williams

This deal would bring New York a young outfield prospect and a pitching prospect nearing the majors. Meanwhile, Philadelphia would fill a bullpen void created by Jose Alvarado’s suspension.

Viars, a 21-year-old outfielder taken in the third round of the 2021 draft, is currently in High-A. Though he’s struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .134 over 67 at-bats, he has potential as a future fourth outfielder.

Baker, a right-handed reliever, is close to making his major league debut. Despite a rough season at Double-A, he’s flashed promise, and the Yankees may believe they can help him develop into a bullpen contributor by next year.

In exchange, the Phillies would receive Williams, who could step in as their closer. Given that he’s a free agent after this season and has a 7.31 ERA over 19 games, Philadelphia likely wouldn’t need to give up significant assets to get him.

Analyst Explains Yankees-Phillies Swap

The suggested trade may not seem like a great return for the Yankees, but Kerman believes New York’s main goal could be to move on from Williams’ contract.

According to Kerman, the Yankees would likely reallocate the money saved toward acquiring another bullpen arm before the trade deadline. On the other side, the Phillies would be taking a chance that a former All-Star closer can bounce back in the National League.

“The Yankees, eager to part ways with underperforming veterans, might accept a limited return for Williams,” Kerman wrote. “Philadelphia could bet on his still-effective changeup—which has a .209 expected batting average—by trading Jordan Viars, a power-hitting outfielder blocked by the team’s top-level prospects, along with reliever Andrew Baker.

“With Williams’ $9 million contract set to expire, the risk is relatively low. A reunion with pitching coach Caleb Cotham—who played a key role in Williams’ 2023 breakout with Milwaukee—could help him return to form. Even if he gets back to just 80% of his peak, Williams could be a strong late-inning option alongside Jordan Romano,” Kerman added.

Williams, a two-time NL Reliever of the Year and All-Star with the Brewers, brings a notable track record to the table.

Yankees Still Hoping for ‘Great Things’ With Williams

The Yankees made a high-profile move to bring in Williams, aiming to solidify the back end of their bullpen.

 

 

However, his performance faltered, leading to his removal from the closer role. Despite the setback, manager Aaron Boone expressed continued faith in Williams.

“We’ll keep discussing it. I haven’t spoken with Devin yet. We’re focused on doing what’s best for both him and the team,” Boone said. “This is just a rough patch—we’ll work through it. I still believe he has a lot to offer.”

Williams has shown some improvement, posting a 4.50 ERA over his last seven outings, but has not reclaimed the closer position.