In a significant boost to their postseason hopes, the Milwaukee Brewers welcomed back All-Star closer Devin Williams from the 60-day injured list. Sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back, Williams made a triumphant return in Sunday's victory over the Miami Marlins.
Williams, tasked with protecting a four-run lead in the ninth inning, displayed a mix of rust and brilliance, allowing a single and a walk while striking out one batter over 24 pitches. Despite the hiccup, his presence on the mound was a welcome sight for the Brewers and their fans.
“I don't like sitting on the bench. I don't like being in the dugout. It's not for me. ... It's gratifying to be back to help carry the load," Williams shared. "I put in a lot of hard work up to this point over the past couple of months. To be in this position and back on the field, it feels great.”
Williams, who will turn 30 in September, has been a cornerstone of the Brewers' bullpen since his remarkable debut. From 2021 to 2023, he posted a stellar 1.97 ERA and a 38.7% strikeout rate, accolades that earned him All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023. His dominance was first highlighted in his rookie season when he won the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year award.
Williams' Path to Recovery
To get back to the majors, Williams embarked on a rigorous rehab assignment where he demonstrated his regained form by striking out six batters over four scoreless innings. His return couldn't have come at a better time for the Brewers, who have been relying on Trevor Megill as their closer during Williams’ absence.
Megill stepped up admirably, converting 20 of 22 save opportunities and posting a 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings. While effective, the return of Williams provides a sense of stability and reinforces the bullpen with a proven All-Star.
Roster Moves and Playoff Picture
In a corresponding move, the Brewers designated Janson Junk for assignment to make room for Williams on the roster. Additionally, the club made headlines with a three-team trade involving the Colorado Rockies, acquiring pitcher Mears, who carries a 5.56 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP.
Sunday's win over the Marlins not only marked Williams' return but also helped the Brewers improve their record to 60-45. The victory extended their lead in the NL Central to six games and positioned them just two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League's No. 2 seed.
Manager Craig Counsell and the rest of the team will be hoping that Williams can maintain his form as they make their push towards October baseball. Having an elite closer back can often tip the scales in tightly contested games, and Williams' track record suggests he is more than capable of being that difference-maker.
Overall, the return of Devin Williams is a substantial lift for the Brewers, who are endeavoring to solidify their place in the playoffs. With his competitive spirit and proven ability, Williams looks poised to be a key player in the Brewers' playoff pursuit, rejoining a bullpen that has proven its mettle in his absence.
Having worked diligently to return to the field, Williams’ voice resonated with anyone who has faced adversity. "To be in this position and back on the field, it feels great," he said—a sentiment that surely echoes through the hearts of Brewers fans everywhere, eager to see their team succeed.