Brewers-Rangers mock trade sends Devin Williams to Texas in 1-for-1 swap

Will the Milwaukee Brewers actually trade one of their best pitchers away this offseason?

If the right deal comes together, nothing can be ruled out.

Brewers star Devin Williams has one more year of control over the team before hitting free agency. He is one of the best closers in baseball and will surely land a mammoth contract next year. If the Brewers don’t believe they will give him this deal, it would make sense to trade him this offseason to maximize the return.

There is a counterargument that the Brewers should keep him at least through the trade deadline to see where the team stands. Milwaukee could trade him at any time down the line, but what if he gets injured or struggles?

If the right deal comes along, it makes sense to at least consider moving. MLB.com’s David Adler put together a mock contract with the Texas Rangers that is very interesting.

“The Rangers are getting: (right-handed pitcher) Devin Williams,” Adler said. “Brewers get: (Right-handed pitcher) Jack Leiter (Rangers’ No. 4 prospect). Why it makes sense: The Rangers went from World Series champions to contenders in a season, but they have everything they need ready to make another run in 2025. Aside from a closer, Texas lost its top three backup players – Kirby Yates, David Robertson and Jose Leclerc. The signing of Jacob Webb is a start is not a Williams.

“This team needs an elite closer to join the rest of its stars. And the Brewers? last year – but his stuff is electric, he’s big league ready and Milwaukee has been successful in pitcher development.”

This is the type of deal Milwaukee should consider. Leiter is only 24 years old and will not become a free agent until 2031. The Brewers have shown they can develop pitching. If you can trade Williams at a bargain price for someone who has the potential to be at least a starter in the middle of the rotation for years to come, why not?