The New York Yankees have already established a strong bullpen for 2025, highlighted by the addition of closer Devin Williams in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers on December 13. Williams, known for his unique “Airbender” changeup, recorded 36 saves in 2023 and added 14 more in 2024 after missing part of the season due to stress fractures in his spine.
Supporting Williams will be nine-year veteran Luke Weaver, who unexpectedly stepped up as a reliable closer after replacing Clay Holmes in the role late last season. Weaver saved four games in September and another four in the postseason, playing a key role in helping the Yankees reach their first World Series in 15 years.
However, the Yankees are still looking to strengthen their bullpen. While they reportedly explored the possibility of signing San Diego Padres free-agent closer Tanner Scott, recent reports suggest they’ve shifted focus to former Texas Rangers lefty Andrew Chafin.
Despite the promising bullpen, the Yankees face potential challenges due to age and injury concerns. Both Williams, 30, and Weaver, 31, have question marks surrounding their health and performance. Williams has a history of back injuries, and he’s also set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, which could leave the Yankees searching for a closer again soon. Weaver, coming off a career season in 2024, is projected to see a decline in performance in 2025, with a higher ERA compared to last year.
A surprising trade idea could address both short- and long-term needs for the Yankees. A deal that sends Weaver to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for fireballer Jhoan Duran could benefit both teams. Weaver, who is owed just $2.5 million this season, offers the Twins an affordable option for their bullpen. Duran, on the other hand, is a younger (27 years old) and more dominant pitcher with two years of team control. He would provide the Yankees with a future closer at a reasonable price, should Williams depart.
Duran, who averaged a fastball velocity of 100.5 mph in 2024, could serve as a powerful setup man for Williams or potentially take over the closer role in the future. For the Twins, Weaver’s cost-effective contract makes him an attractive option to fill their bullpen needs. This trade would create a win-win scenario for both teams, with the Yankees strengthening their bullpen for the long term while minimizing risk in the late innings. As spring training approaches, the Yankees may consider this bold move to secure future dominance at closer.
