The Milwaukee Brewers will commence the season without their All-Star closer, Devin Williams, who faces a potential absence of at least three months due to two stress fractures in his back.
Williams, who pitched through back soreness toward the end of the previous season, sought further evaluation after experiencing discomfort during spring training. Following an initial MRI in Arizona, he underwent examination by Dr. Robert Watkins, a renowned spine specialist, in California on Wednesday.
Reflecting on the diagnosis, Williams remarked to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “There was a difference in the initial diagnosis and what Watkins saw.” ESPN, citing undisclosed sources, initially reported the presence of stress fractures.
Initially, Brewers manager Pat Murphy conveyed a lack of concern after the team’s MRI, indicating that Williams could proceed with treatment and take some time off. However, Williams refuted any misrepresentation by Murphy, clarifying his stance to the Journal Sentinel.
The 29-year-old right-hander delivered an outstanding performance last season, recording an 8-3 record with a stellar 1.53 ERA and 36 saves in 40 opportunities. Over his past two All-Star seasons, Williams accumulated 183 strikeouts in 119 1/3 innings.
Since his debut in late 2019, he boasts a career ERA of 1.89 with 54 saves across 219 appearances. Williams earned the National League Rookie of the Year title in 2020.
In November, Milwaukee and Williams avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $7.25 million contract, inclusive of a club option for the 2025 season, potentially totaling $18.5 million over two years, including award bonuses.
