The Philadelphia Phillies will have a few ways to improve at the deadline. With Jose Alvarado suspended for the postseason and 80 games in the regular season, there’s no debate that the team will be interested in trading for a reliever. However, without giving up one of their top prospects, there might not be much chance for the Phillies to land an elite arm.
Despite that reality, Clutch Points’ Garrett Kerman proposed the idea for the Phillies to trade for Devin Williams of the New York Yankees, arguably the best closer in baseball when he’s at his best.
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Yes, Williams has struggled to start the year, but he’s typically been excellent throughout his career, and it isn’t out of the question to suggest that he’ll bounce back and look like himself soon.
Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park.Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
His trade idea would only move Jordan Viars and Andrew Baker, allowing the Phillies to land a star without giving up too much.
“The Phillies could gamble on Williams’ elite changeup-still generating a .209 xBA-by trading Jordan Viars, a power-hitting outfielder stuck behind Philadelphia’s MLB-ready prospects, and reliever Andrew Baker.
“Williams’ $9 million expiring contract is a low-risk investment, and a reunion with pitching coach Caleb Cotham (who oversaw Williams’ 2023 breakout in Milwaukee) might unlock his prior form. If Williams rediscovers even 80% of his peak ability, he’d offer a proven late-inning option alongside Jordan Romano,” Kerman wrote.
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The Yankees wouldn’t have much reason to take this deal, even if they want to move on from Williams at the deadline.
However, from their perspective, it seems likely that he’ll be on the roster past July 31. William has started figuring it out recently, a promising sign for a Yankees team looking to win a World Series just like the Phillies.
Related: Bryce Harper Offers High Praise on Phillies Pitcher’s Dominating 2025 Season
Phillies Land Yankees’ Devin Williams in Blockbuster Trade Idea first appeared on Athlon Sports on May 22, 2025