Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressing doubts about Devin Williams' position as the team's closer due to recent performance issues.
The New York Yankees have made a change in their closer role, with Devin Williams being removed after several blown saves and recent struggles. Manager Aaron Boone is now considering a closer-by-committee approach, with David Bednar and Camilo Doval as potential replacements [1][2].
Williams' departure from the closer role came after three consecutive outings allowing earned runs and multiple blown saves, which put the team's playoff hopes at risk. While Williams remains effective in lower-pressure situations, the team sees Bednar and Doval as key late-inning options moving forward [1].
David Bednar, a freshly acquired reliever, pitched the eighth inning on Monday and could be in line to take over as the closer if Williams is indeed removed from the role. Bednar saved 17 games for the Pirates this season, pitching to a 2.37 ERA with 51 strikeouts in 38 innings [1].
Camilo Doval, another newly acquired reliever, was excellent for the Giants this year, with a 3.09 ERA and 15 saves for San Francisco [1]. Aaron Boone appreciates the depth the bullpen now has with Bednar, Doval, and returning pitcher Luke Weaver, allowing him to tailor late-game matchups rather than relying solely on Williams [1][2].
Boone stated that consistency is needed to succeed in the closer role, and the flexible strategy aims to stabilize the bullpen and enhance the Yankees’ chances in close games [1][2].
Joc Pederson of the Rangers hit a game-tying home run off Devin Williams on Monday, adding to Williams' struggles [2]. Jake Bird, a recent acquisition from the Rockies, was optioned to Triple-A on Tuesday [2].
References: [1] https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/34538417/new-york-yankees-shake-up-bullpen-devin-williams-closer-role [2] https://www.mlb.com/news/yankees-remove-devin-williams-from-closer-role-as-they-shake-up-bullpen/c-350693962
In light of Devin Williams' recent struggles and multiple blown saves, the New York Yankees might consider replacing him as their closer. David Bednar, a newly acquired reliever with a 2.37 ERA and 17 saves this season, could be in line for the role. Manager Aaron Boone recognizes Bednar, alongside Camilo Doval and returning pitcher Luke Weaver, as valuable late-inning options for the improved bullpen's flexibility in close games.
