ESPN REPORTS: New York Yankees completed blockbuster trade with Milwaukee Brewers for All-Star closer
The New York Yankees have finalized a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers to acquire All-Star closer Devin Williams, sending left-handed starter Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and cash considerations to Milwaukee, the team announced Friday.
Williams, 30, is coming off a 2024 season shortened by injuries but still managed to post an impressive 1.25 ERA with 38 strikeouts over 21 2/3 innings. Entering his walk year, Williams brings one year of team control to the Yankees. Across his six-season career, he has excelled with an ERA+ of 232 and an FIP of 2.39, while striking out an elite 39.4% of opposing batters. Notably, he has recorded sub-2.00 ERAs in each of the last three seasons, powered by a high-velocity fastball and one of the league’s most dominant changeups. However, durability remains a concern, as Williams has faced a variety of injuries, including a back stress fracture in 2024 and prior issues with his shoulder, calf, elbow, and hand.
The Yankees capitalized on their pitching depth following the addition of Max Fried to bolster their rotation. They also sought a replacement for Clay Holmes, who signed with the Mets, making Williams a key bullpen acquisition.
In return, Milwaukee adds the versatile Nestor Cortes, who turned 30 on December 10. The left-hander has a career ERA+ of 110 and an FIP of 4.10 across 86 starts and 49 relief appearances. Last season, he posted a 3.77 ERA over 174 1/3 innings with the Yankees. A 2022 All-Star, Cortes has one year of arbitration remaining before free agency in 2026.
The Brewers also receive Caleb Durbin, a promising 24-year-old infielder. Durbin has shown offensive consistency with a .269/.374/.407 slash line and 110 stolen bases over four minor-league seasons. Known for his strong plate discipline and versatility, he advanced to Triple-A in 2024 and impressed in the Arizona Fall League. Primarily a second baseman, the former 14th-round pick out of Washington University in St. Louis could factor into Milwaukee’s future plans.