Yankees Limit Struggling Reliever Devin Williams Amid Ongoing Issues
The New York Yankees brought in reliever Devin Williams on a one-year, $8.6 million deal hoping he would solidify the back end of their bullpen. However, after losing his role as closer early in the season due to a series of poor performances, Williams is now facing additional limitations in how he’s used.
Manager Aaron Boone recently shared that the team will restrict Williams to shorter appearances moving forward. Specifically, he’ll only be used in situations where three outs are needed—at least for now.
“He’s here as more of a one-inning guy,” Boone said. “That’s what he’s done the last couple years. Eventually, there may be a four-out situation, but I’m not ready to push him into two-inning outings yet.”
Williams appears to be on board with the plan, saying he supports a one-inning bullpen approach, which helps maintain consistency among relievers.
The decision aligns with how Williams has been used in recent seasons. According to New York Post reporter Greg Joyce, Williams hasn’t pitched more than one full inning in a game since September 2023. Last year, he missed significant time with a stress fracture in his back, which may still be influencing his workload.
Yankees Weigh Options for Stroman’s Return
Meanwhile, the Yankees have another decision to make in their pitching rotation. Veteran starter Marcus Stroman struggled in a recent rehab start for Double-A Somerset, allowing 10 hits and five earned runs in under four innings. His rocky performance may delay his return to the major league roster.
“We’ll look into it more and decide what the next move should be,” Boone said of Stroman’s status.
This comes at a tough time for the Yankees, who recently lost Ryan Yarbrough to the injured list with an oblique strain. It’s unclear whether Stroman will be activated to take his place in the rotation for the upcoming game against the Oakland Athletics.
Pitching coach Matt Blake confirmed that the team is still evaluating their options. Both Stroman and Allan Winans are under consideration to fill Yarbrough’s spot, but no final decision has been made.
“It’s still a conversation,” Blake said. “We need to determine where Stroman stands and decide what’s best for the team from a roster standpoint.”
