The New York Yankees have burst out of the gate in the 2025 MLB season, boasting an impressive 18–13 record that places them among the American League’s elite. Much of their early success can be credited to the usual brilliance of MLBbro All-Star outfielder Aaron Judge, who is off to another phenomenal start.
The addition of proven stars like Paul Goldschmidt and Cody Bellinger has also paid immediate dividends, giving the Yankees one of the league’s most potent lineups.
Back-To-Back Brilliance: MLBbro Devin Williams Secures Consecutive Saves For Yankees
Devin “Airbender” Williams Gets Demoted From Closer Role
However, despite the promising start, the team hasn’t reached its full potential—and part of the reason lies in the unexpected struggles of $8.6M MLBbro closer Devin Williams.
A two-time All-Star and former Milwaukee Brewers standout, Williams arrived in the Bronx this offseason with high expectations. But like many before him, he’s learned that wearing the pinstripes comes with its own set of pressures. His early-season performance has fallen well short of the elite standard he’s set throughout his career.
Through his first 10 innings, Williams has surrendered 10 earned runs, resulting in a bloated 9.00 ERA. Opposing hitters are batting .300 against him—by far the highest average he’s ever allowed—and his hard-hit rate has spiked to a career-worst 35.5%.
His trademark command has also been off, as evidenced by a troubling 10-to-8 strikeout-to-walk ratio and a hit batter. These are uncharacteristic numbers for a pitcher who’s long been known for his wipeout changeup and elite late-inning poise.
Is Devin Williams On The Decline?
At age 30, questions are beginning to surface: Is this a temporary slump, or the first signs of decline? While the concern is valid, it’s still early in the season. Williams has the track record and talent to rebound, and a few sharp outings could quickly swing the narrative.
If the Yankees hope to maintain their momentum and contend deep into October, getting their closer back to form will be crucial. Williams’ return to dominance could be the final piece in transforming a good team into a championship-caliber one. A closer of his ilk could have been a key difference last year in holding onto leads late in World Series games against the LA Dodgers.
Airbender Still Adjusting to Playing In Bronx Zoo
Devin Williams’ early season woes are not uncommon for players adjusting to the intense spotlight of New York baseball. The history of the game is filled with talented stars who needed time to find their rhythm under the weight of heightened expectations.
Williams, with his elite changeup and proven ability to dominate late in games, has all the tools to turn things around. The Yankees have the offense, the rotation, and the leadership in place to weather the storm. If Williams can regain his confidence and sharpen his command, the Bronx Bombers could become the most complete team in baseball.
With over five months of regular season still ahead, there’s more than enough time for the MLBbro closer to rewrite his early chapter and play a vital role in the Yankees’ pursuit of title number 28.
