Devin Williams, previously a standout closer with a 1.83 ERA in his first six MLB seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers, has been demoted from his role as the New York Yankees' closer after struggling with a 10.00 ERA in his first eight innings. Despite his rocky start, Christian Yelich, Williams' former Brewers teammate, remains confident in Williams' abilities, attributing the struggles to small sample sizes and the pressure of the New York market. Williams' transition to the Yankees has been marked by his discomfort with the increased media presence and changes like shaving his beard due to team policies. The Yankees have turned to Luke Weaver as their new closer, who has performed flawlessly so far. Williams' demotion comes at an unfortunate time as he approaches free agency, adding to the challenges he faces in the current season.

Devin Williams was demoted from his role as the Yankees' closer after allowing 10 earned runs in his first eight innings, a stark contrast to his impressive 1.83 ERA over six seasons with the Brewers.

Christian Yelich, Williams' former teammate, believes Williams will overcome his struggles in New York, stressing that small sample sizes can skew perceptions of performance and that Williams is experienced in high-pressure games.

Williams has faced challenges adjusting to the New York market, including the pressure of increased media attention and adapting to the Yankees' grooming policies, which required him to shave his beard.

The Yankees have replaced Williams with Luke Weaver as their closer, who has successfully closed out two games in the last week with a perfect 0.00 ERA over 13 appearances this season.

Williams' demotion is particularly ill-timed as he is in his final season before free agency, compounding the pressure to perform well and secure his future in Major League Baseball.