Brewers Reportedly Opt Not to Exercise Club Option for RHP Devin Williams
The Milwaukee Brewers rejected Devin Williams\' $10.5 million team option for 2025 and instead gave the All-Star closer a $250,000 buyout, according to multiple sources on Sunday.
Williams, who had inked a one-year, $7.25 million contract with Milwaukee prior to the 2024 season, will remain with the team as he enters his final year of arbitration.
According to ESPN, Williams, 30, is projected to earn $8 million to $9 million next season unless he and the team reach a new agreement before an arbitration hearing.
Potentially saving up to $2 million on Williams\' salary for next season could also make it more feasible for the Brewers to trade the two-time National League Reliever of the Year.
An injury and a crucial blown save marked the beginning and end of an otherwise impressive season for Williams in 2024.
He started the season on the injured list with a stress fracture in his back and did not make an appearance in the majors until July 28. Once he was back to full health, Williams recorded a 1.25 ERA in 22 relief appearances, aiding Milwaukee in winning its second consecutive NL Central title.
Williams secured the save in Game 2 of the Brewers\' wild-card series against the New York Mets, but faltered in the decisive Game 3 the following night. He entered in the ninth inning with a 2-0 lead before giving up four runs, including a go-ahead three-run homer by Pete Alonso, as New York came back to win 4-2.
A two-time All-Star, Williams has a career record of 27-10 with a 1.83 ERA in 241 relief appearances over six seasons in the majors, all with Milwaukee.
