Devin Williams calls potential setup role behind Edwin Diaz 'a good situation' - ESPN

Devin Williams entered free agency with opportunities to sign with clubs as a clear-cut closer. But the right-hander agreed to a three-year, $51 million deal with the New York Mets this week knowing the ninth inning could go to Edwin Diaz if the All-Star closer returns to Queens in free agency.

«I think it's just a good situation,» Williams said on a video call with reporters Friday. «If he comes back, I think we're going to have a really good back of the 'pen. More good arms is always a good thing. That's really it.»

Díaz opted out of his contract last month with two years and $38 million remaining determined to secure another multi-year deal approaching the five-year, $102 million pact he signed with the Mets after the 2022 season. The Mets remain interested in a reunion, sources tell ESPN, but Williams gives them a proven backup plan, which could dampen the Mets' willingness to meet Diaz's demands.

If Díaz returns to the Mets, Williams would assume a setup role. It's a familiar job. The 31-year-old Williams burst onto the scene with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2020, winning NL Rookie of the Year as a setup man for closer Josh Hader. He thrived in the role until Hader was traded in July of 2022, an unexpected move that elevated Williams to closer and helped plummet the Brewers from first place in the NL Central to out of the postseason.

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns ran the Brewers' front office at the time. He left the organization after the 2023 season while Williams continued shining in the ninth inning in Milwaukee, posting a 1.46 ERA with 50 saves in 68 games between 2023 and 2024 — his first two full seasons as a closer.

«I'm familiar with the way that he wants the organization to run,»