The Milwaukee Brewers have received a significant boost with the return of All-Star closer Devin Williams. The 29-year-old was activated off the 60-day injured list after being sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back. His absence had left a significant void in the Brewers' bullpen, but it appears he's back just in time for a critical stretch of the season.
Williams made his highly anticipated season debut in Sunday's game against the Miami Marlins, and he didn't disappoint. Tasked with protecting a four-run lead in the ninth inning, Williams allowed a single and a walk but managed to strike out one batter, throwing a total of 24 pitches. It's clear that the Brewers are eager to reintegrate him into the team's closing role, a spot that has significant implications for their postseason ambitions.
"I don't like sitting on the bench. I don't like being in the dugout. It's not for me," Williams said, reflecting on his time away from the game. "It's gratifying to be back to help carry the load. I put in a lot of hard work up to this point over the past couple of months. To be in this position and back on the field, it feels great."
Williams' Remarkable Track Record
Williams has been a cornerstone of the Brewers' bullpen since his breakout year in 2020, when he won the NL Rookie of the Year. From 2021 to 2023, he maintained an impressive 1.97 ERA and boasted a remarkable 38.7% strikeout rate. His consistency earned him All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023, solidifying his reputation as one of the top closers in the league.
During his minor-league rehab assignment, Williams showed that he hadn't lost his touch, striking out six batters in four scoreless innings. This performance was a promising indicator that he was ready to return to his dominant ways at the major league level.
The Impact of Trevor Megill
In Williams' absence, Trevor Megill stepped up admirably, serving as the Brewers' closer. Megill successfully converted 20 of 22 save opportunities, posting a 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings. His reliable performance helped the Brewers weather the storm without their All-Star closer, but with Williams back in the fold, Megill can now revert to a setup role, further deepening the bullpen.
Trade and Roster Moves
In addition to Williams’ return, the Brewers have made other strategic moves to bolster their roster. They acquired pitcher Mears in a three-team trade that involved the Colorado Rockies. Mears, who had a 5.56 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP, is seen as a project player with potential upside. On the flip side, the Brewers designated Janson Junk for assignment to make room for the returning and incoming players.
A Team on the Rise
With Sunday's victory over the Marlins, the Milwaukee Brewers improved their record to 60-45, extending their lead in the NL Central to six games. They're now just two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League's No. 2 seed, underscoring their strong performance this season and raising hopes for a deep postseason run.
Williams' return couldn't come at a better time as the Brewers look to maintain their momentum and secure a favorable playoff position. His presence not only strengthens the bullpen but also boosts the overall morale of a team that has its eyes set on October. For Milwaukee, the stretch run is shaping up to be an exciting journey, with Devin Williams playing a pivotal role.