Yankees Weekly Recap: Devin Williams Struggles, Luke Weaver Named New Closer

Week in Review: April 20–27, 2025

The New York Yankees wrapped up a frustrating week with a 2–3 record, dropping two out of three games to the Cleveland Guardians and losing a heartbreaker to the Toronto Blue Jays. While every game felt within reach, the inability to close out tight contests has become a recurring theme.

Underperforming stars continue to weigh the team down, while unexpected contributors step up. But this week, all eyes were on the bullpen—and especially on Devin Williams.

Devin Williams Blows Save, Loses Closer Role

Friday night’s matchup against the Blue Jays was the tipping point. The Yankees took a 2–1 lead into the ninth inning, turning the ball over to Devin Williams, who’s struggled all season. He walked the first batter, hit the next, and gave up a go-ahead double. He was pulled from the game, and the Yankees would go on to lose 4–2.

Williams now has multiple blown saves this season, and his lack of command has raised serious concerns.

Was the Devin Williams Trade Still Worth It?

Despite Williams' struggles, many fans still support the trade that brought him to New York. The Yankees dealt away Nestor Cortes, who missed most of last season with an elbow injury, and Caleb Durbin, a rising but untested infield prospect.

At the time, the move made sense to bolster a bullpen that desperately needed a high-leverage arm. Even now, there’s reason to believe Williams can bounce back.

Yankees Name Luke Weaver as Temporary Closer

Ahead of Sunday’s doubleheader, the Yankees officially announced that Luke Weaver would take over closing duties, at least temporarily. Manager Aaron Boone noted that the team still has confidence in Williams but believes a break from high-leverage situations may help him reset.

Weaver has been solid in middle relief this season and will now have the opportunity to step into a key role again.

Final Thoughts

The Yankees will need their bullpen to step up as they face another challenging stretch along with a few bats in their lineup. With Luke Weaver in the closer role and questions swirling around the rotation and lineup, it’s a pivotal time for the Bronx Bombers. They have a week full of division games, three against the Tampa Rays and three more against the Baltimore Orioles.