Mon Apr 28 00:20:00 UTC 2025: **Yankees Relieve Williams of Closing Duties Amidst Struggles**
NEW YORK – New York Yankees closer Devin Williams has been removed from his role, manager Aaron Boone announced Sunday. The decision follows a string of poor performances, including a rough outing Friday against the Toronto Blue Jays that saw him booed off the mound and resulted in two runs allowed without recording an out.
Williams, 30, boasts a dismal 11.25 ERA this season, accompanied by career-worst strikeout (18.2%), whiff (24.1%), and walk (15.9%) rates. While Boone expressed confidence in Williams’ ability to overcome this slump, emphasizing his prime age and potential, he stated that a change was necessary to allow the pitcher to regain his form and confidence.
Setup man Luke Weaver, who holds a perfect 0.00 ERA this season, will take over the majority of save opportunities. Boone indicated that other relievers will also be utilized in high-leverage situations. Williams will not be assigned a specific role for the time being, instead focusing on rebuilding his rhythm and consistency.
Boone attributed some of Williams’ struggles to falling behind in counts and the pressure of pitching in front of a demanding Yankee Stadium crowd. He pointed to similar past experiences with other prominent players, suggesting that Williams will eventually overcome this obstacle.
The Yankees acquired Williams in a December trade, hoping he would solidify their bullpen. His previous success with the Milwaukee Brewers, including a 1.83 ERA and two All-Star selections, stands in stark contrast to his current difficulties. The team remains optimistic that Williams will return to his former self, relying on his changeup-fastball combination.
In other news, Luis Gil, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, resumed his throwing program after a lat strain. Jonathan Loáisiga also began a rehab assignment, potentially returning to the Yankees by late May.
First Piper 