Disastrous Yankees reliever torpedoing his own impending free agency

At the beginning of the season, the biggest question surrounding Devin Williams' impending free agency was whether or not the New York Yankees would extend the qualifying offer. 

Williams had been one of the best relievers in the game during his time with the Brewers. A two-time All-Star and the 2020 NL Rookie of the Year, he had posted a 1.70 ERA and a 0.977 WHIP in 222 innings between 2020 and 2024, striking out 361 batters with 106 walks. He was acquired by the Yankees during the offseason, replacing former closer Clay Holmes, and was expected to be the answer in the ninth inning.

That has not been the case. Although Williams has displayed flashes of his All-Star form, his time in New York has been a disaster. Williams had posted a 5.73 ERA and a 1.227 WHIP over his 44 innings entering Sunday, notching 17 saves. However, Williams had also been removed from the closer role previously, with his struggles contributing to the Yankees' moves at the trade deadline to revitalize their bullpen.

Those struggles have been worse over his past five outings. Williams has allowed at least one earned run in each game, leading Chris Kirschner of The Athletic to speculate as to whether or not the Yankees would cut the former lights-out closer loose. 

It is a drastic change in fortunes for Williams. Tim Britton of The Athletic had projected that Williams would receive a five-year, $80 million contract in free agency at the beginning of the season. While such a contract seems unlikely given his performance this season, a two- or three-year deal may remain on the table. 

Williams does have a track record as one of the best relievers in the game. However, his struggles with the Yankees this season have damaged his stature in free agency.