Devin Williams’ tenure as the New York Yankees’ closer hit another low point Friday night, as chants of “We want Weaver” echoed through Yankee Stadium following his latest blown save. The 30-year-old right-hander failed to record an out in the ninth inning, surrendering a single, hitting a batter, and allowing a two-run double to Alejandro Kirk, turning a 2–1 lead into a 4–2 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays.
When asked postgame about the fans’ chants, Williams offered a terse response: “Everybody has their opinion.” Pressed further on how it made him feel, he replied, “I don’t have an opinion on that.”
Regarding his performance, Williams candidly admitted, “Nothing is working right now.”
This outing ballooned Williams’ ERA to 11.25 over 10 appearances this season. Opponents are batting .286 against his signature “Airbender” changeup, with a 22.4% whiff rate and a .486 expected slugging percentage, significant declines from 2024.
Despite earlier votes of confidence from manager Aaron Boone and pitching coach Matt Blake, the Yankees now face mounting pressure to reconsider Williams’ role. Boone, when asked if a change was imminent, responded, “We’ll see,” indicating that all options are being considered.
New York Yankees closer Devin Williams reacts to fans’ chants after blowing the save against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium.
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Meanwhile, Luke Weaver has been as reliable an option in the bullpen as the Yankees have had.
The 31-year-old right-hander has opened the season with 13 scoreless innings, striking out 13 and allowing just two hits. Weaver’s dominance has not gone unnoticed. Fans are increasingly calling for him to reclaim the closer role he held during the 2024 postseason.
Deciding who will handle the ninth inning becomes crucial now. Whether Williams can regain his form or the team turns to Weaver, the Yankees have to win these games.
