Trading for Devin Williams is an intriguing possibility for the Phillies, but whether it makes sense depends on how they view their roster priorities and the alternatives in the free-agent market.
### **Reasons to Consider Trading for Williams**
1. **Elite Track Record**: Williams’ career 1.83 ERA and 375 strikeouts in 235 2/3 innings highlight his dominance as a reliever. His “Airbender” changeup makes him one of the most unhittable pitchers in baseball when healthy.
2. **Closer Need**: With Carlos Estévez likely leaving, Williams would immediately fill a crucial hole in the Phillies’ bullpen, solidifying the back end with a proven All-Star closer.
3. **Win-Now Mentality**: The Phillies are in win-now mode, and adding a high-impact closer could be the difference in tight postseason games, a recurring issue in recent years.
### **Why the Phillies Should Be Hesitant**
1. **Cost of Bohm or Stott**:
– **Bryson Stott**: Trading Stott, an ascending young star, would weaken the Phillies’ infield depth and long-term lineup stability. Stott’s breakout offensive season and solid defense make him invaluable.
– **Alec Bohm**: While Bohm is less essential than Stott, trading him still weakens the infield and middle-of-the-order production. The Phillies would also need to find a capable third baseman, potentially incurring additional costs.
2. **Injury Risk**: Williams’ recent injury history is a concern, particularly for a team investing in high-leverage relievers.
3. **Free-Agent Options**: The closer market this offseason includes names like Josh Hader, Jordan Hicks, and David Robertson. While Williams is younger and likely cheaper in the short term than signing a marquee free agent, the Phillies could address their bullpen needs without sacrificing a key player.
### **Alternative Trade Approach**
Instead of offering Stott or Bohm, the Phillies could explore a package of prospects or lesser MLB talent to acquire Williams. The Brewers, needing affordable offense, might value young, controllable players such as outfield prospect Johan Rojas or corner infielder Weston Wilson.
### **Conclusion**
Trading Bohm or Stott for Devin Williams is a risky proposition for the Phillies, especially with other bullpen solutions available via free agency.
While Williams is an elite closer, the cost in this scenario might outweigh the benefit, particularly when the Phillies already have a competitive lineup and roster core. Instead, pursuing a free-agent closer or structuring a trade around non-core players seems like a more balanced approach.
