Yankees Acquire 'Airbender' Reliever Devin Williams in $8.6M Deal, Eyes Rivera's Legacy
January 10, 2025
Devin Williams, a standout reliever in Major League Baseball, is celebrated for his exceptional changeup, known as 'The Airbender.'
In December 2024, Williams was traded from the Milwaukee Brewers to the New York Yankees to prevent escalating costs in free agency.
To solidify his role in the Yankees' bullpen, Williams agreed to an $8.6 million contract in January 2025, avoiding arbitration.
Despite missing the first four months of the 2024 season due to stress fractures in his back, Williams posted an impressive 1.25 ERA and secured 14 saves out of 15 opportunities.
Since his debut in 2019, Williams has made a significant impact, winning the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2020 and earning All-Star honors in 2022 and 2023.
He ranks second among major league relievers with a striking 40.8% strikeout rate and holds the best batting average against at .144.
Williams' changeup is particularly notable for its high spin rate and unique movement, resembling a screwball rather than a traditional changeup.
He credits the success of his changeup to his elite extension and distinctive wrist pronation, which allow him to manipulate the ball effectively.
In 2019, Williams altered his changeup grip from a two-seam to a four-seam, circle change grip, which significantly enhanced his performance.
The effectiveness of Williams' changeup first gained attention during a 2020 summer camp, where teammates were amazed by its movement.
Williams aspires to emulate the legendary Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, fully aware of the high expectations that accompany such a legacy.
During the Yankees' World Series run in 2024, Williams enjoyed the vibrant culture of New York instead of engaging in his usual vacation pastime of playing soccer.
Summary based on 1 source
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Source

ESPN • Jan 10, 2025
New Yankees closer Devin Williams brings Airbender to Bronx - ESPN