Yankees Face Challenges but Anticipate Key Return of Devin Williams

BRONX, N.Y. — The New York Yankees are navigating a challenging start to the season as they conclude their series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, missing a crucial player. All-Star closer Devin Williams has been on the paternity list since Tuesday after welcoming the birth of his child. His absence has already impacted late-game strategies, particularly in a recent game where the Yankees lost a two-run lead in the eighth inning.

Despite the adversity, the Yankees began their season with a sweep against another opponent, but they now face the real possibility of being swept by the Diamondbacks. Good pitching from Arizona has put the Yankees’ offense on hold, creating undue pressure on the bullpen to perform.

“It wasn’t Weaver’s or Williams’ fault,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone said about the bullpen’s performance in the Game 1 loss to Arizona. With Williams unavailable, the team struggled to seal the game, a position they might have managed more effectively with their star closer on the mound.

Williams is expected to rejoin the team for an upcoming series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Boone confirmed, “Devin Williams (paternity list) is expected to rejoin the Yankees tomorrow in Pittsburgh.” This news offers a glimmer of hope, as the Yankees look to regain momentum.

In a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers during the offseason, Williams was acquired to enhance New York’s bullpen. The Yankees traded lefty Nestor Cortes and infield prospect Calen Durbin to bring the elite closer to the Bronx. With Williams set to hit free agency after the World Series, his performance is vital for both the Yankees and his own career aspirations.

So far in 2025, Williams has only made one appearance, allowing a run but earning a save against his former team. His career ERA stands impressively at 1.87, suggesting he can quickly regain form after his time off.

In addition to Williams’ return, another storyline for the Yankees is the recent signing of first baseman/designated hitter. Not making the Opening Day roster has led him to re-sign a minor league deal with the club.

The Yankees are also benefitting from the standout play of second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has been a significant contributor early in the season. Chisholm has been making headlines with a specialized bat design that seems to be complementing his already impressive performance. He went 5-for-12 in the season-opening series, hitting three home runs and driving in six runs.

With Giancarlo Stanton sidelined due to elbow injuries, the contributions from players like Chisholm and the anticipated return of Williams become crucial for the Yankees as they move forward.