The New York Mets have completed a massive free agency move, signing former New York Yankees closer Devin Williams to a three-year, $51 million contract, completing a shocking cross-town acquisition that immediately addresses the Mets’ need for late-inning stability.
This move marks a dramatic shift in the “Subway Series” rivalry, as the Mets snatched the two-time All-Star away from their Bronx rivals in a deal that guarantees him a $6 million signing bonus and $45 million in salary.
🍎 Why the Mets Made the Move
Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns was the general manager of the Milwaukee Brewers when Williams was developed into the National League Rookie of the Year (2020) and a two-time NL Reliever of the Year. This personal and professional relationship was key to the signing.
- The “Buy-Low” Gamble: Williams had a turbulent 2025 season with the Yankees, posting a career-worst 4.79 ERA and losing the closer role twice. However, his underlying metrics remained elite: a 2.95 FIP and a stellar 34.7% strikeout rate (90 strikeouts in 62 innings), suggesting he was extremely unlucky. The Mets are betting on a return to his dominant form.
- Addressing the Void: The Mets’ top closer, Edwin Díaz, recently opted out of his contract, creating a void in the ninth inning. Williams provides an established anchor, whether as the primary closer or as a high-leverage setup man.
- The Díaz Factor: Insiders report that signing Williams does not rule out a reunion with Edwin Díaz. The Mets are still actively pursuing Díaz, and adding Williams would create an intimidating tandem at the back of the bullpen.
📉 The Yankees Perspective
The Yankees, who acquired Williams just a year ago in a trade with the Brewers, opted not to issue him a qualifying offer, allowing him to enter free agency. The Yankees struggled with inconsistency in the closer role throughout the 2025 season and seem prepared to look elsewhere to rebuild their bullpen, making the decision to let Williams walk a tough one for the franchise.
Williams, 31, expressed a liking for New York after his one season in the Bronx, but the Mets’ aggressive pursuit and familiarity with Stearns proved to be the winning combination.
