The Saturday game against the Rays was a tough reality check for the Yankees. Yes, it was a gut punch for the team about their vulnerable bullpen. For all the Yankees’ offensive firepower (currently the best in the business), this game highlighted a crack in the foundation — you can’t win titles if you can’t close games. Moreover, the 8-10 loss to the Rays wasn’t just one bad inning — it was a reminder that talent alone doesn’t win you games. The Yankees may have the payroll and the power, but without a locked-in closer, they’re vulnerable.

Well, apart from the Yankees, the Saturday game was a reality check for Devin Williams as well. Williams landed with the Yankees this year after Clay Holmes went to the Mets. Guess what, it just took three-and-a-half weeks to witness that he is light years away from his All-Star worthy performance last year. His disastrous ninth inning after blowing off the Yankees’ 8-4 lead was just too much for fans to take.

Williams seems to be well aware of his below-par performance yesterday, and he was visibly exhausted during the post-game meet. “Yeah, four-run lead, you’d like to get in and get out,” Williams said. “Made some good pitches, made some bad ones. Not enough good ones today.” Reacting to his two-run hit by Brandon Lowe, Williams wasn’t shy of acknowledging his shortcomings. However, what happened to his famous airbenders, one of the best un-hittable pitches in the league?

“Maybe using it too much,” he said. “We’ll work on that.” Quite a possibility, considering how he is throwing airbenders often this year. “Tough luck on that double down the line, but aside from that, I thought I threw the ball pretty well.” While Williams is confident after his debacle yesterday for a better comeback, it was a stark warning for the team. Guess what, this game was the most glaring example yet of how shaky the back end of the bullpen has been.

Well, Williams should know that the move from the Brewers to Yankee Stadium is no small jump, and New York is too brutal for such misses! Closers in the Bronx are judged differently — just take a look at Aroldis Chapman or Clay Holmes’ early years. Remember Holmes’ early days with the Yankees in 2021? He had control issues, and his first few outings in pinstripes were shaky. Fortunately, he made a quick turnaround, which is now expected from Williams.

The Yankees’ bullpen is gasping for some added strength

Well, Devin Williams still has the tools — it just hasn’t clicked yet in pinstripes. However, it would be a risky affair for the Yankees to test their patience here. More than 16 games have already been played this season, and it’s time to settle for a better alternative. Moreover, if this slide continues into May, a bullpen reshuffle or even a trade deadline move could be coming.

The Yankees got Luke Weaver, the guy who first took over the closer role after the exit of Clay Holmes. So, he is a very strong option to replace Devin Williams as the Yankees’ closer if the struggles continue. His 2025 numbers are nothing short of being elite. 0.00 ERA in 11 innings with only 2 hits allowed, 13 SOs, is something at par with the elite pitcher level! One area where Weaver is ahead of Williams is his pitching variety. For starters, Weaver uses a sharp cutter, a deceptive changeup, and a well-located fastball. He doesn’t rely on overpowering velocity — he locates, changes speeds, and keeps hitters off balance.

So, given the current dynamics, Luke Weaver appears to be a strong candidate to assume the closer role for the Yankees. His performance has been stellar, and he has demonstrated the poise and effectiveness required for high-pressure situations. While Williams has the potential to rebound, Weaver’s current form makes him the more reliable option at this juncture. Apart from Weaver, the Yankees can still look for other options. They got Mark Leiter Jr. and Ian Hamilton in the bullpen! 

Being a reliever in New York is no joke — you’re under the microscope every night. Let’s see who is next going under the scope after Williams. What do you think?