Devin Williams Returns to Reinforce Brewers' Bullpen
The Milwaukee Brewers received a significant boost this week with the return of All-Star closer Devin Williams. After being sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back, Williams was activated off the 60-day injured list and promptly made his season debut in a crucial win over the Miami Marlins.
Williams, who turned 30 in September, was tasked with protecting a four-run lead in the ninth inning. In his return, he allowed a single and a walk, struck out one batter, and threw 24 pitches in total. Though not flawless, his performance was a significant step forward in his comeback journey.
Reflecting on his time off the field, Williams stated, "I don't like sitting on the bench. I don't like being in the dugout. It's not for me. ... 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’ contribution over the past few seasons has been nothing short of extraordinary. From 2021 to 2023, he maintained a stellar 1.97 ERA and boasted a 38.7% strikeout rate, earning him All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023. His success can be traced back to his breakout performance in 2020 when he won the National League Rookie of the Year award.
During his minor-league rehab assignment, Williams struck out six batters in four scoreless innings, showcasing the dominant form Brewers fans have come to expect. His return couldn't have come at a better time, as the Brewers are deep in the playoff hunt.
While Williams was on the mend, Trevor Megill stepped up to fill the closer role admirably. Megill successfully converted 20 of 22 save chances and posted a 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings, proving to be a reliable anchor in the Brewers' bullpen.
In other roster moves, the Brewers designated Janson Junk for assignment and acquired pitcher Mears in a three-team trade involving the Colorado Rockies. Mears brings a 5.56 ERA and 1.50 WHIP, likely providing depth as the Brewers' pitching staff adapts to the latter part of the season.
With Sunday’s victory over the Marlins, the Milwaukee Brewers improved to 60-45, extending their lead in the NL Central to six games. They are now just two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League's No. 2 seed, underscoring the importance of Williams' return.
The Brewers' bullpen, bolstered by the return of their star closer, looks poised to provide the stability and firepower needed for a deep playoff run. As the season reaches its critical stages, Milwaukee's pitching staff appears well-equipped to handle the pressure, with Devin Williams back where he belongs—on the mound.