The Chicago Cubs have officially completed one of the most impactful bullpen moves of the offseason, finalizing a blockbuster reunion with two-time National League Reliever of the Year Devin Williams, reuniting him with manager Craig Counsell, the coach who previously guided him to elite status in Milwaukee.
This move follows the Cubs’ recent multi-year signing of right-hander Phil Maton, a decision that signaled the organization’s intent to overhaul and stabilize the bullpen after several seasons of inconsistency. But while Maton strengthened the middle-relief group, the Cubs made it clear that they were far from finished — and that they were determined to add a true high-leverage force.
That opportunity materialized when talks with Williams gained momentum. Although the market featured bigger names, including Edwin Díaz and Robert Suárez, Chicago viewed both as financially unrealistic options due to their long-term demands. In contrast, Williams presented the perfect blend of star power, familiarity, and attainable contract structure.
Williams’ 2025 season with the Yankees was uneven, marked by a 4.79 ERA. Yet the Cubs front office remained confident in his underlying performance, especially after a strong turnaround following April. Over his final 50.1 innings, Williams posted a 3.58 ERA and struck out 90 hitters, showcasing the elite swing-and-miss ability that has defined his career. His 34.7% strikeout rate ranked among MLB’s best, reinforcing the belief that his mechanics and dominance remain intact.
Chicago also leaned heavily on Williams’ exceptional history with Counsell. From 2019 to 2024 with the Milwaukee Brewers, Williams was virtually untouchable, producing a remarkable 1.83 ERA over 241 appearances, earning two Reliever of the Year awards, and establishing himself as one of baseball’s most feared late-inning pitchers.
Financial terms of the reunion have not been publicly confirmed, but sources indicate the Cubs were willing to approach the $15 million-per-year range to secure a deal. For a franchise that has been cautious with reliever spending in recent years, the move reflects a clear shift in approach — and a belief that Williams can anchor a bullpen capable of supporting a playoff push.
With Williams back under Counsell’s leadership, the Cubs now enter the new season with renewed confidence, a reinforced relief corps, and one of the league’s most dynamic late-inning weapons. For Chicago, this reunion represents not just a signing, but a statement of intent: they are ready to contend again, and they are building a bullpen with the power and depth to match those ambitions.
