Despite best efforts to fortify the group with splashy signings last offseason, the Los Angeles Dodgers were left without a trustworthy bullpen in October in what represented a reversal from 2024.
Whereas the Dodgers bullpen led the team on a World Series run last year, the starting rotation factored just as prominently in their triumph this year. Game 7 of the World Series saw the Dodgers use only pitchers who have been drafted and developed as starters.
But now looking ahead at the chance to three-peat like the 1998-2000 New York Yankees, the Dodgers figure to again address their bullpen.
According to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic, one potential option for the team is New York Yankees free agent Devin Williams:
Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes affirmed Tuesday that the Dodgers could sign a reliever as they ramp up for a potential three-peat. Candidates include at least one familiar target already clear at this week’s annual general manager’s meetings in Las Vegas, sources said: two-time All-Star reliever Devin Williams.
Williams is coming off a difficult first season with the Yankees in which he went 4-6 with a 4.79 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 18 saves in 22 opportunities. Though, he did produce nine consecutive scoreless appearances in September.
Williams was removed from the closer role by late April and was inconsistent in late-game situations throughout the entire 2025 season. The right-hander was utilized as a setup man behind David Bednar to finish out the regular season.
The 31-year-old expressed an interest in re-signing with the Yankees after they were eliminated from the postseason by the Toronto Blue Jays, and admitted his preference would be to settle into a closer role once again. However, Williams did leave open the possibility for pitching in other scenarios under the right circumstance.
Dodgers nearly traded for Devin Williams
The Dodgers were among the teams linked to a Williams trade prior to the Milwaukee Brewers sending the two-time National League Reliever of the Year to the Yankees.
During an introductory press conference with the Yankees, Williams himself shared he anticipated a Dodgers trade.
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