Devin Williams Eyes a Comeback: Nearing His Return to the New York Mets’ Bullpen

After more than half a year of grueling rehab, Mets reliever Devin Williams is starting to feel the light at the end of the tunnel. The right‑hander, who missed the entire 2023 campaign following Tommy John surgery, told reporters on Tuesday that he’s “getting closer” to being game‑ready.

Williams, who was drafted by New York in the fourth round of the 2018 draft, has been working out of the Mets’ training facility in East Orange. "The workouts are tough, but the guys here make it feel doable," he said, flashing a smile that hinted at both relief and lingering caution.

He’s not the only one optimistic. Mets pitching coach Dave Eiland noted that Williams has made “steady, measurable strides” in his arm strength and command. “He’s throwing his fastball in the low‑90s again, and his off‑speed stuff is snapping back,” Eiland remarked, adding that the team hopes to see him in a live‑batting environment before the season’s final stretch.

While the exact timeline is still fluid, the consensus among the coaching staff is that a September call‑up is plausible. "If everything continues on this trajectory, we could have him in the bullpen as the stretch approaches," Eiland said, pausing to laugh. "We’re all just excited to see him pitch again, even if it’s just a few innings at first."

Williams admits the road back has been as mental as it has been physical. "There are days when the doubt creeps in, but my family, my teammates, and the fans keep me focused," he reflected. He also shared a small routine that’s helped him stay grounded: a quick call to his mother before every throwing session.

Fans have been vocal on social media, flooding the Mets’ official accounts with #WilliamsIsBack hashtags and hopeful emojis. The buzz is palpable, and for a team that’s been flirting with a playoff spot, having a reliable arm in the late‑innings could be a game‑changer.

Regardless of when the official call‑up happens, Williams says he’s grateful for the patience shown by the organization. "The Mets have given me the space to heal properly, and that means a lot," he said. "I just want to step onto the mound and do what I love – help the team win."