Not a surprise-Hot Proposed Talisman Trade with Brewers Rival makes no Sense on Multiple Levels

Why the Proposed Devin Williams Deal with Brewers Rival Makes No Sense

The proposed trade of Devin Williams, the Milwaukee Brewers’ standout closer, raises multiple concerns. Williams, who has excelled in his career with a remarkable 1.83 ERA, two All-Star selections, and a Rookie of the Year award, may soon be on the move. Brewers GM Matt Arnold indicated that no possibilities are off the table regarding Williams’ future, particularly given the team’s small-market status.

This uncertainty has sparked a flurry of mock trade scenarios, many of which seem unbalanced, particularly one highlighted by Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller. In this scenario, the Brewers would trade Williams to their NL Central rival, the Pittsburgh Pirates, in exchange for pitching prospect Braxton Ashcraft—nothing more.

While Miller mentions that the Brewers will activate Williams’ $10.5 million club option for 2025, he suggests that Williams, who struggles in October, should be traded. Ashcraft, a promising 24-year-old who posted a 2.84 ERA across 16 appearances this season, is a solid prospect but not enough for a player of Williams’ caliber.

Trading within the division is often seen as unfavorable, and in this case, it seems especially ill-advised. The Pirates are on the rise and acquiring a top closer like Williams would only bolster their chances. Additionally, the Brewers previously received a much larger return when they traded Josh Hader, who had more control at the time, making this proposed deal seem even less favorable.

Recent trades involving rental closers further illustrate that Ashcraft alone would not suffice. Other teams acquired multiple top prospects for their closers, indicating that the market value is much higher than what the Brewers would get in this mock trade. While Ashcraft has potential, he doesn’t come close to matching the value of one of the league’s best closers.