In 2020, Devin Williams became a household name. He was a formidable force in the Milwaukee Brewers bullpen, equipped with a devastating changeup known as “The Airbender” that behaved like a screwball.
He was awarded the National League Rookie of the Year and received support for both the Cy Young and MVP honors despite playing as a setup man and failing to record a save.
At the start of the season, it seemed as though the mystery surrounding Williams’ Airbender had been resolved.
The assumption that his prowess was caused by the use of that sticky material caused him to suffer when Major League Baseball stated that it would start clamping down on pitchers doctoring the baseball.
But that notion is beginning to shift. Williams has rediscovered his form as other pitchers have battled with the crackdown’s stringent enforcement and the spot checks of gloves and caps.
Since the beginning of July, he has pitched 19 innings, giving up just one unearned run while also striking out 28 hitters while giving up 10 hits and four walks.
With Williams’ comeback, Josh Hader’s strong performance, and Brad Boxberger’s unexpected success, the Brewers’ bullpen is prepared to take the lead once more.
The Brewers seem to be prepared for a long postseason run when combined with a strong trio atop the rotation.
But ultimately, it will depend on if the bullpen can continue to perform at a high level for the rest of 2021.
Given his dominance during his entire major league career, Hader seems like a given. Is the remainder of the bullpen able to maintain that level of output as well?
How Tall Is Devin Williams?
Devin Willaims stands at a height of 1.9 m.