PITTSBURGH — The Yankees’ closer is back.
The team activated Devin Williams, as expected, prior to Friday’s series-opener against the Pirates. Williams went on the paternity list on April 1, causing him to miss the Yankees’ three-game series against the Diamondbacks.
The Yankees signed Adam Ottavino to take Williams’ place that day. On Friday, the Yankees designated Ottavino for assignment to make room for Williams on the active roster.
Williams, acquired in an offseason trade with the Brewers, has not pitched since Opening Day, March 27. The right-hander recorded his first save of the season in his Yankees debut, a 4-2 win, though he totaled two hits, one walk, two strikeouts, one earned run and 36 pitches in a less-than-stellar ninth inning.
The Yankees have had just one save opportunity since; Luke Weaver recorded one over four outs against Arizona on Thursday night.
Weaver filled the closer’s role for the Yankees late last season and in the playoffs after Clay Holmes struggled in the job.
Ottavino, a New York City native who previously pitched for the Yankees from 2019-2020, appeared in two games following his return earlier this week. The 39-year-old didn’t allow a run, walked two and struck out two over 1.1 innings.
