Yankees Trade for Star Closer; Cortes Throws in the Towel

Yankees Trade for Star Closer; Cortes Throws in the Towel

4 minute read
Published: 12/13/2024

In a bold move to bolster their bullpen, the New York Yankees have acquired two-time All-Star closer Devin Williams from the Brewers, trading Nestor Cortes, Caleb Durbin, and cash in the process.

By capturing Williams, a standout with a 1.83 ERA and a history of saving games faster than a kid dodging spinach at dinner, the Yankees are shaking things up after losing Clay Holmes to free agency and parting ways with two promising players. This acquisition comes as the Yankees, having just lost a high-stakes bidding war for Juan Soto, seek to reclaim their spot in the postseason spotlight with a revamped roster that's looking a lot more formidable than last year's.

Devin Williams, the newly minted Yankee, brings with him an impressive resume that includes being named the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year. For those keeping score at home, that’s one way to introduce yourself at a team meeting: 'Hi, I’m Devin, and I’m basically the reason you don’t have to hold your breath every time a relief pitcher enters the game.' His career ERA of 1.83 over 241 relief appearances suggests he’s more reliable than an alarm clock with fresh batteries.

Meanwhile, Nestor Cortes, who was part of the trade, concluded last season with a record of 9-10 and a 3.77 ERA. Cortes, while not exactly a household name, contributed more than just adequate innings for the Yankees. In his defense, that ERA might as well be a trophy for making it through the season as a starter when everyone else was leaping into the relief pool without floaties.

Prospect Caleb Durbin, hailed as the Arizona Fall League’s Breakout Prospect of the Year, has now swapped his prospect status for the big-league lifestyle. Rumor has it, he was last seen hugging his mother while someone whispered, 'That’s not just any jersey, that’s a Yankees jersey.' It's a bittersweet trade for Durbin, who is diving into the untested waters of major league pressure—that realm where rookies are born and dreams go to take a nap.

In a strange twist of fate, Williams missed the first four months of the last season thanks to stress fractures in his back. Some might say it’s a questionable way to spend your summer, sidelined with an injury while your team is battling for a playoff position, but that’s a level of teamwork even professional athletes sometimes fail to comprehend. Despite the setback, Williams bounced back, saving 65 games over the last three seasons. He isn't a doctor, but it seems he has mastered the art of back pain management... at least while on the field.

The Yankees weren't merely sitting around reminiscing about missed opportunities in free agency. After failing to snatch Juan Soto from the clutches of the competition, they turned their attention to reshaping their roster. They recently signed Max Fried to a whopping eight-year deal worth $218 million. At this point, some might even wonder if the Yankees are trying to single-handedly solve the economy by spending more than my last ten birthdays combined.

Looking ahead, the Yankees still have their eyes on other potential acquisitions. Trade talks for outfielder Kyle Tucker and discussions with first baseman Christian Walker are reportedly ongoing. For this organization, it's not just about stocking the bullpen; it’s more like a big league version of grocery shopping on a budget as they attempt to collect all the right players before checkout.

The aggressive reshaping of the Yankees suggests one thing: they are determined to return to their winning ways. Fans are holding their breath in anticipation; their roster has seen more twists and turns than a soap opera plot. For them, Williams’ acquisition could either lead to a momentous championship run or a series of regrettable post-game hot dogs from the concession stand.

Nevertheless, one thing is for sure: this transaction has injected a dose of excitement into the upcoming season. If the Yankees manage to piece together a solid bullpen with Williams at the helm, it might just put the days of worrying about mediocre late-game performances behind them. As for Williams, he better get ready for a fan base that expects nothing less than superhero-like performances. After all, in New York, a bullpen arm is expected to be as consistent as the pizza delivery times.