January 19, 2025

The Milwaukee Brewers shipped their top relief pitcher, Devin Williams, to the New York Yankees in exchange for infielder Caleb Durbin and Nestor Cortes, which leaves their ninth-inning role open. When Williams missed time in the first half of the 2024 campaign, right-hander Trevor Megill filled that void and performed quite well as he tallied 20 saves with a solid 2.48 ERA and a 1.00 WHIP across 29 innings of work. He ended the campaign with a 2.72 ERA and a 1.01 WHIP through 46 1/3 innings with 21 total saves, which were all career-highs. He posted a strong 27.3% K rate and a 29.7% whiff rate. In addition, he generated a 2.83 xERA and a .209 xBA, which were both significantly above the average marks among qualified pitchers. However, he posted a hefty 42.4% hard-hit rate and a modest 7.7% walk rate. The 31-year-old relies on just two pitches, his fastball, and knuckle curve. His knuckle curve generated an impressive 55.0% whiff rate and a .265 xSLG. However, Megill missed some time on the injured list with a back injury, which is not promising given that he logged a career-high in innings. However, given Megill's success in the closer role during the first half of the 2024 season, fantasy managers should expect the right-hander to receive the first save opportunity of the season. Megill has a viable path to reach the 30-save mark if he can stay healthy. Megill is a solid pick at his current 186.88 ADP on the NFBC if you choose to fade top closing options, as he carries the upside of several other top closers, albeit with more risk, but at a more favorable price.--Andy Smith