Devin Williams & Emmanuel Clase Underperforming: Fantasy Baseball Advice

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Post on May 10, 2025

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Devin Williams & Emmanuel Clase Underperforming: Fantasy Baseball Advice

The 2023 MLB season hasn't unfolded as planned for many fantasy baseball managers, particularly those who drafted high-profile closers like Devin Williams and Emmanuel Clase. Both star relievers, typically considered anchors for fantasy rosters, have experienced unexpected dips in performance, leaving many owners scrambling for solutions. This article delves into the reasons behind their struggles and offers advice on how to navigate this challenging situation in your fantasy league.

Devin Williams: A Closer's Wobble?

Devin Williams, the Brewers' flame-throwing closer, has been far from his dominant self. His typically lights-out fastball command has wavered, resulting in more walks and fewer strikeouts. While his underlying stuff remains elite, the inconsistencies are undeniably concerning for fantasy owners.

• The Issue: A potential loss of velocity, coupled with a slightly higher walk rate, suggests a mechanical issue or perhaps even a minor injury that hasn't been publicly disclosed. Fantasy managers need to monitor news reports closely.

• The Strategy: Consider this a "buy low" opportunity if your league allows trades. Williams’ track record suggests this is likely a temporary slump. However, if you need immediate saves, it might be time to explore alternative options. Don't panic and drop him unless your roster space is extremely tight. Patience might be rewarded.

Emmanuel Clase: A Statistical Anomaly?

Emmanuel Clase, the Guardians' shutdown closer, has also shown some vulnerability this season. While not experiencing a complete collapse like Williams, his ERA and WHIP are higher than expected, raising eyebrows among fantasy baseball analysts.

• The Issue: While Clase's fastball velocity remains impressive, his command has been slightly less precise, leading to more baserunners than usual. This, coupled with a few unlucky hits, has inflated his ERA.

• The Strategy: Unlike Williams, Clase's struggles are less alarming. His high strikeout rate and overall talent remain intact. He's likely experiencing a small statistical blip. Holding onto Clase is generally recommended, especially if your league prioritizes saves and holds.

Fantasy Baseball Advice: What to Do Now?

Facing underperforming star players like Williams and Clase is a common challenge in fantasy baseball. Here's a breakdown of how to best proceed:

• Assess Your Roster: Carefully analyze your bullpen depth. Do you have reliable replacement options if you decide to make a move?

• League Context: Consider your league's scoring system. If saves are heavily weighted, you might need to act more decisively than in a league that emphasizes other statistics.

• Trade Opportunities: Explore trade possibilities. You might be able to package Williams or Clase with other players to acquire a more consistent closer.

• Waiver Wire: Actively monitor the waiver wire for potential replacements. Look for closers in strong bullpens who have shown recent success.

• Patience is Key: Both Williams and Clase are proven talents. Their current struggles don't necessarily negate their long-term value. Consider if your team can withstand a short-term dip in performance.

Conclusion:

The underperformance of Devin Williams and Emmanuel Clase serves as a reminder that even the best players can experience slumps. Careful analysis of the situation, coupled with strategic decision-making, is crucial for navigating this challenge and maximizing your fantasy baseball team's success. Remember to stay updated on the latest news and injury reports to make informed choices.