The return of Devin Williams has bolstered the Milwaukee Brewers' bullpen, adding a much-needed spark as they continue their push through the season. The All-Star closer was activated off the 60-day injured list, a move that rejuvenates the Brewers' relief unit. Williams had been sidelined since spring training due to stress fractures in his back but made a triumphant return in Sunday's win over the Miami Marlins.
"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."
The Brewers wasted no time calling on Williams, tasking him with protecting a four-run lead in the ninth inning. Despite allowing a single and a walk, he struck out one batter and, in total, threw 24 pitches. This outing marked not just his return to the mound but also reinforced his critical role in the team’s bullpen strategy.
Williams' performance over the past three years has been nothing short of stellar. From 2021 to 2023, he maintained a remarkable 1.97 ERA and an impressive 38.7% strikeout rate. At just 30 years old, he has already accumulated a decorated career, highlighted by winning the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year and receiving All-Star honors in both 2022 and 2023.
While Williams was on the mend, Trevor Megill stepped up to fill the closer role, performing admirably under pressure. Megill successfully converted 20 of 22 save chances, posting a 2.41 ERA with 40 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings. His efforts not only kept the Brewers competitive but also cushioned the impact of Williams’ absence.
In addition to Williams' return, the Brewers made waves with a recent acquisition. The team picked up pitcher Mears in a three-team trade involving the Colorado Rockies. Mears had a 5.56 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP, numbers that the Brewers hope to improve as he acclimates to his new team. Concurrently, the Brewers designated Janson Junk for assignment, a move likely aimed at bolstering their pitching depth as they aim for postseason success.
Williams’ journey back to the mound included a minor-league rehab assignment where he struck out six batters across four scoreless innings, demonstrating that his recovery process has been effective and that he’s ready to contribute at the major league level once more.
With Sunday's victory over the Marlins, the Milwaukee Brewers improved their record to 60-45, extending their lead in the NL Central to six games. They now find themselves only two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League's No. 2 seed, making Williams’ return all the more timely as they seek to strengthen their standing.
The Brewers' ability to stay competitive during Williams’ absence and now elevate their game with his return speaks volumes about the team's resilience and depth. As Devin Williams continues to shake off the rust, fans and teammates alike will be looking forward to more dominant performances that could propel Milwaukee deep into the postseason.