Mets' playoff hopes take another hit with Devin Williams news

The New York Mets still believe they can make a run to the postseason. Those hopes took a hit on Monday.

The Mets announced that closer Devin Williams was placed on the Injured List due to a strained right shoulder. Anthony DiComo from MLB.com reported that the Mets expect Williams to have a short stay on the IL.

Williams had been a gamble for the Mets when they signed him to a three-year, $51 million contract during the offseason. He had struggled during his one season with the Yankees, posting a 4.79 ERA, albeit with a 1.129 WHiP, over his 62 innings, striking out 90 batters with 25 walks.

New York Mets need to rely on inexperienced bullpen with Devin Williams sidelined

That gamble has not paid off thus far. Williams had posted a 4.66 ERA and a 1.655 WHiP over his 38.2 innings with the Mets, striking out 51 batters with 21 walks. His 4.9 BB/9 rate, 11.9 K/9 rate, WHiP and .757 OPS against are his worst marks since Williams established himself in the majors in 2020.

Although Williams is not expected to be sidelined for long, the Mets have a question mark in the ninth inning. Kodai Senga does have experience as a late-inning reliever in Japan and may be the default option for saves. Otherwise, the Mets' collection of relievers lacks significant experience. 

If the Mets are going to make good on Sean Manaea's bold statement that the Mets can be a playoff team, the young bullpen will need to step up. Otherwise, losing Williams could be the death knell for the Mets' season.