In a welcome turn of events for the Milwaukee Brewers, All-Star closer Devin Williams has returned to the lineup, delivering a much-needed boost to the team's bullpen. Williams was activated off the 60-day injured list after being sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back.
Making his season debut in Sunday's game against the Miami Marlins, Williams was immediately thrust into a critical role. Entrusted with preserving a four-run lead in the ninth inning, Williams delivered a mixed but ultimately effective performance. He allowed a single and a walk, struck out one batter, and threw a total of 24 pitches to secure the victory.
The 29-year-old closer expressed his relief and determination to be back on the mound. "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 said.
Williams, who turns 30 in September, has been a pivotal player for the Brewers. From 2021 to 2023, he maintained a stellar 1.97 ERA and an impressive 38.7% strikeout rate. His accolades include winning the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year and receiving All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023. During his minor-league rehab assignment, Williams struck out six batters in four scoreless innings, demonstrating his readiness to return to the major leagues.
During Williams' absence, the closer role was capably filled by Trevor Megill. Megill successfully converted 20 of 22 save opportunities, posting a 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings. His performance ensured that the Brewers' bullpen remained one of the team's strengths even without their All-Star closer.
Additionally, the Brewers have made a few roster moves to bolster their pitching staff. In a three-team trade involving the Colorado Rockies, the Brewers acquired pitcher Nick Mears. Though Mears has had a challenging season with a 5.56 ERA and 1.50 WHIP, the Brewers are optimistic he can provide depth to their bullpen.
In another roster move, Janson Junk was designated for assignment to make space for the returning Williams. These strategic decisions are part of the Brewers' efforts to maintain their competitive edge as they push towards the postseason.
With Sunday's victory over the Marlins, the Milwaukee Brewers improved their record to an impressive 60-45. They extended their lead in the NL Central to six games, solidifying their position at the top of the division. The Brewers are also narrowing the gap in the race for the National League's No. 2 seed, trailing the Los Angeles Dodgers by just two games.
Williams' return couldn't have come at a better time for the Brewers, who are gearing up for the final stretch of the regular season. His presence not only adds firepower to the bullpen but also brings a sense of stability and confidence to the team. As they continue their pursuit of another NL Central title and a deep playoff run, the Brewers will undoubtedly rely on Williams' experience and talent to help lead the way.