Free-agent relief pitcher Devin Williams and the New York Mets have agreed to a three-year contract worth more than $50 million, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan on Monday night. Williams joins the Mets after a challenging 2025 season with the crosstown rival New York Yankees.
Williams, 31, posted a career-worst 4.79 ERA over 67 appearances for the Yankees in 2025. He saved 18 games in 22 chances but shared closing duties for most of the season after a rough start.
The Yankees acquired Williams last December from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for pitcher Nestor Cortes and National League Rookie of the Year finalist Caleb Durbin. Williams entered the season as New York's designated closer but struggled with consistency throughout the campaign.
Williams recorded four scoreless outings during the Yankees' postseason run. However, David Bednar earned both of New York's playoff saves, reflecting Williams' diminished role down the stretch.
Before joining the Yankees, Williams established himself as a premier late-inning reliever during six seasons with Milwaukee. He initially served as a setup man for star closer Josh Hader before replacing Hader in the closer role.
Williams' track record with the Brewers demonstrated his ability to handle high-leverage situations effectively. His struggles in 2025 represented an outlier in an otherwise consistent career trajectory.
The Mets are betting on Williams to bounce back to his Milwaukee form in 2026. The three-year commitment signals confidence that his Yankees struggles were an aberration rather than a long-term decline.
New York's bullpen receives a significant upgrade with Williams' arrival. The investment represents a major addition as the Mets continue building their roster for contention.



