Mets Add Proven Reliever Williams, Setting Stage for Bullpen Overhaul
Teh New York Mets have significantly bolstered their bullpen with the signing of veteran reliever Trevor Williams to a three-year contract, as first reported by The Athletic. This move signals a clear intent to dramatically improve a unit that underperformed last season.But what role will Williams fill – setup man or closer?
The answer hinges on the future of Edwin Diaz, who opted out of his contract and currently stands as the top free agent reliever available. The Mets remain actively interested in bringing Diaz back, and adding Williams doesn’t preclude that possibility. Essentially, the Mets are preparing for multiple scenarios.
A Look at Trevor Williams’ Career
Williams, 31, arrives in Queens after a single season with the New York yankees. he was initially acquired by the Yankees in December from the Milwaukee Brewers in a trade involving pitcher Nestor Cortes and infielder Caleb Durbin. However, 2024 proved to be a challenging year for the right-hander.
Despite posting a career-worst 4.79 ERA across 67 appearances, advanced metrics paint a more encouraging picture. His 2.68 FIP (Fielding Self-reliant Pitching), .195 expected batting average against, and remarkable strikeout rates suggest his ERA was somewhat misleading.
Here’s a fast breakdown of his 2024 performance:
* Saves: 18 in 22 opportunities
* ERA: 4.79
* FIP: 2.68
* Expected Batting Average Against:.195
While Williams began the season as the designated closer, inconsistent performance led to a shared role. He did contribute four scoreless outings during the Yankees’ postseason run, though David Bednar ultimately secured New York’s playoff saves.
A Return to Form?
Before joining the Yankees, Williams established himself as a dominant force in the Milwaukee bullpen for six seasons. He initially excelled as a setup man for star closer Josh Hader, then seamlessly transitioned into the closer role when Hader departed.
Consider his extraordinary run with the brewers:
* NL Rookie of the year: 2020 (0.33 ERA in 22 outings)
* All-Star Selections: Two
* record (2021-2023): 15-7 with 65 saves
* ERA (2021-2023): A remarkable 1.66
You’ll find that Williams’ success isn’t reliant on overpowering velocity. Instead, he leverages one of baseball’s most deceptive pitches - a changeup affectionately known as “The Airbender.” This unique offering consistently disrupts hitters’ timing and generates swings and misses.
Familiar Territory
This signing also represents a reunion for Williams and Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns. Stearns held the same position with the Brewers during Williams’ first four seasons in Milwaukee. This existing relationship could facilitate a smooth transition and unlock Williams’ full potential.
Ultimately, the Mets have added a proven commodity to their bullpen. Whether he’s closing games or setting up for others, Trevor Williams is poised to be a key contributor as the team aims to contend in the years ahead.
ESPN MLB Writer Bradford Doolittle contributed to this report.