Milwaukee Brewers Manager Speaks On Devin Williams Trade Rumors

Milwaukee Brewers general manager Matt Arnold addressed rumors surrounding the potential trade of All-Star closer Devin Williams during a recent press conference, acknowledging the financial constraints that come with being the smallest market in Major League Baseball. 

Arnold emphasized the need to stay "open-minded" about all possibilities as Williams approaches his final year of team control in 2025. 

"We have to stay open-minded. We're the smallest market in the league, so that's something that's required in this," Arnold explained, referring to the team’s history of moving key players before they reach free agency to avoid losing them without a return.

Matt Arnold on Devin Williams entering final year of control: "We have to stay open-minded. We're the smallest market in the league, so that's something that's required in this." Said Williams was "unbelievable" in the second half and shouldn't be defined by one pitch in Game 3.

— Adam McCalvy (@AdamMcCalvy) October 10, 2024

Williams, 30, missed much of the 2024 season due to stress fractures in his back but returned in dominant form, posting a 1.25 ERA over 22 appearances. 

Despite his stellar track record, which includes a career 1.83 ERA, injuries and the high cost of a potential qualifying offer make retaining him a risky proposition for the Brewers. 

With a $10.5 million option for 2025, Arnold hinted that trading Williams could help Milwaukee acquire younger, controllable players, similar to the trades of Josh Hader in 2022 and Corbin Burnes last offseason. 

"That's something we have to consider with every player in our situation," Arnold noted.

Devin Williams is a stud. And he stood in front of his locker in the lowest of lows and faced the music
🎤

The anti Rory McIlroy

Feel for the brewers for real

But…… #LGM pic.twitter.com/smssqtLjG3

— Dave Ross (@drosssports) October 4, 2024

Although trading Williams would leave a significant gap in the bullpen, Arnold pointed to internal options like Trevor Megill, who stepped up as closer during Williams' absence and saved 21 games with a 2.72 ERA. 

Given the Brewers' financial difficulties and potential loss of revenue from the Diamond Sports Group deal, Arnold stressed that the team is prepared to explore all avenues to remain competitive.

Photo Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images