Devin Williams has returned to the Milwaukee Brewers, strengthening their bullpen after missing four months with stress fractures in his back. The two-time All-Star closer made his 2024 debut on Sunday, pitching a scoreless inning in a 6-2 win against the Miami Marlins. Williams, who was reinstated earlier that day, expressed confidence, saying, “It’s like riding a bike. I’ve done it a million times.”
In related roster moves, the Brewers designated right-hander Janson Junk for assignment and sent right-hander JB Bukauskas to Triple-A Nashville for a rehabilitation assignment.
Williams, who had an impressive 2023 season with an 8-3 record, a 1.53 ERA, and 36 saves, returns at a crucial time. The Brewers’ bullpen has been heavily used, especially with injuries to Bryan Hudson and Rob Zastryzny. The team’s starting pitchers have contributed an MLB-low 493 1/3 innings this season.
During his rehabilitation, Williams pitched four scoreless innings and received a standing ovation on Sunday. He reached nearly 98 mph, despite some ninth-inning trouble. Manager Pat Murphy noted that while Williams wasn’t completely sharp, his return was encouraging.
Williams’ 2023 performance included 87 strikeouts in 58 2/3 innings. In his recent rehab assignments, he struck out six, walked two, and allowed just one hit. Despite Milwaukee’s strong bullpen ERA of 3.33, the return of Williams is seen as a major boost.
The Brewers recently acquired Nick Mears from the Colorado Rockies to add depth to their bullpen. Mears, who had been struggling, discovered he had been tipping pitches and has since made adjustments, resulting in a 1.80 ERA and a .160 opponent batting average over his last 12 appearances.
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