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After a tumultuous season with the New York Yankees, reliever Devin Williams is reportedly heading across town.
The New York Mets signed Williams to a three-year, $51 million deal with no opt-outs or options, according to multiple reports.
Williams, 31, had a career-worst season in his lone year in the Bronx. The two-time All-Star was 4-6 with a 4.79 ERA in 67 games while striking out 90 batters and walking 25.
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New York Yankees pitcher Devin Williams (38) reacts after allowing a two-run hit during the seventh inning of Game 4 of the ALDS at Yankee Stadium in Bronx, New York on October 8, 2025. (Brad Penner/Imagn Images)
Williams started the season as the closer but lost the role due to poor play. He eventually resumed his duties in the ninth inning only to abandon them once again. Toward the end of the season, Williams pitched well, as he posted a 2.50 ERA in his final 19 games of the season.
Williams, who was acquired by the Yankees in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers before the 2025 season, also became a catalyst for why the Yankees changed their long-standing facial hair policy during spring training.
The veteran reliever showed up to spring training with a full beard and made it known he didn’t want to shave. Williams said if the policy was still in effect when he became a free agent, it would affect his decision to return to the Yankees.
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New York Yankees pitcher Devin Williams delivers against the Toronto Blue Jays in the seventh inning of Game 3 of the American League Division Series, October 7, 2025, in New York. (Yuki Iwamura/AP Photo, file)
However, after the season, Williams expressed interest in returning to the team despite having a career-worst year.
“At first it was a challenge, but I ended up loving being here,” the reliever said in October after a 5-2 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 4 of their ALDS. “I love this city. I love taking the train to the field every day. Yes, I really enjoyed my experience here.”
The Mets’ signing of Williams provides them with insurance if Edwin Diaz decides to leave in free agency. Diaz has been the team’s closer since 2019, but opted out of his contract after a strong 2025 season.
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New York Yankees relief pitcher Devin Williams (38) delivers a pitch during the tenth inning against the Houston Astros at Yankee Stadium. (Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images)
Diaz had a 1.63 ERA and 28 saves in 62 games last season and is expected to receive a big contract in free agency. If Diaz leaves, the Mets know Williams can fill the role capably, as he posted a 1.83 ERA and 68 saves in six seasons with the Brewers.
If Diaz returns, Williams could then slide into the eighth inning and give the Mets a solid combination in the back of the bullpen.
