Marlins Pursue Star Pitcher Devin Williams
The Miami Marlins are gearing up for a significant offseason after finishing the previous season with a 79-83 record, just four games shy of a playoff spot. Aiming to improve their performance, the Marlins are actively pursuing upgrades, specifically in their bullpen and among position players.
Marlins Eyeing Star Pitcher Devin Williams
Reports indicate that Miami has set its sights on Devin Williams, a two-time All-Star reliever. At 31 years old, Williams has established himself as a top-tier reliever since his debut season. He won the NL Rookie of the Year award with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2020.
Devin Williams: Impressive Track Record
During his time in Milwaukee, Williams achieved notable statistics, including:
- 1.83 ERA over six seasons
- 39.4% strikeout rate in 235 2/3 innings
- 87.2% save conversion rate
- 2.66 SIERA, ranking fourth among relievers with at least 200 innings pitched from 2019 to 2024
In an offseason move, Williams was traded to the New York Yankees in exchange for pitcher Nestor Cortes Jr. and infielder Caleb Durbin. However, his performance took a downturn in New York, where he posted a 4.79 ERA over 62 innings.
Opportunity for Miami
Despite his struggles, Williams’ underlying metrics remain strong. His 2.68 FIP ranks him 18th among qualified relievers, while his 2.67 SIERA is 15th. Additionally, he maintained a 34.7% strikeout rate, which was the eighth-best in Major League Baseball.
This dip in performance has likely affected Williams’s market value, presenting a potential opportunity for the Marlins. As a team that has historically been cautious with spending, they may view this as a chance to secure an elite reliever at a lower cost.
Closer Role Could Be Key
The Marlins had a turbulent closer situation last season, spreading save opportunities across nine different pitchers. Signing Williams would not only provide stability but also allow him to reclaim the ninth inning role, making Miami a more attractive option. Williams hinted that the ability to be a closer could be a factor in his free agency decision, stating it “depends on the scenario.”
While the Marlins are interested, they will face competition. Other teams, such as the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers, are also searching for reliable closing options. The Detroit Tigers have previously expressed a need for veteran closing experience.
As the offseason unfolds, the pursuit of Devin Williams by the Marlins exemplifies their commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
