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Yankees’ $31 Million All-Star Sends Strong Contract Message

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated Mar 31, 2025 3:22 PM ET

All-Star closer Devin Williams sounds like he wants to remain a part of the New York Yankees’ transition to the future.

First, the Yankees changed their decades-old facial hair policy in February, shortly after Williams shaved upon reporting to camp. A bearded Williams recorded his first Yankees save against his old Milwaukee Brewers teammates last Thursday.

Williams didn’t see the mound in the next two games, though not because he allowed a run during his Yankees debut. Instead, he watched from the bullpen as the reigning AL champions mashed 13 home runs—partly because of their new ‘Torpedo’ bats—across Saturday and Sunday’s victories.

The Yankees are impressing the 30-year-old Williams at the right time. Williams, who has earned just under $31 million thus far, hits free agency this winter and should command a significant contract.

Although he’s only been a Yankee since December, Williams made it clear he’d “love to” stay in the Bronx.

“So far, everything has been great,” Williams told MLB.com. “The Yankees have great facilities. A great staff. Everything.”

Williams nonetheless put the Yankees on notice.

“There has to be that mutual want on both ends,” Williams said. “It’s not just up to me.”

In fairness, Williams almost certainly wouldn’t publicly declare he hated the Yankees and had no plans on re-signing. A player in a contract year isn’t going to tank his value like that, especially not so early in the season.

The Yankees haven’t done anything to publicly indicate they’re not interested in re-signing Williams. It’s also worth noting the Yankees typically don’t extend players during the season, as Aaron Judge learned firsthand during his 2022 MVP season.

As for November? Both sides should certainly have mutual interest if Williams posts another All-Star caliber season and the undefeated Yankees win their first title since 2009.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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