In December, the Milwaukee Brewers traded 2023 National League Reliever of the Year Devin Williams to the New York Yankees, leaving Milwaukee’s closer role up for contention.
During Williams’ four-month absence with a back injury last season, veteran Trevor Megill (21 saves in 2024) assumed the role. He probably will fill Williams’ role in 2025, at least early in the season, but a potential MLB star from Triple-A could ultimately seize the coveted spot: 25-year-old Craig Yoho.
Yoho, ranked as the No. 21 prospect in the Brewers’ Top 30, rose rapidly through the minor leagues last season. He began in High-A, pitching in only 16 games before a promotion to Double-A. There, he showcased his talent in 18 games, leading to another promotion to Triple-A, where he appeared in 14 games.
In the minors last season, Yoho posted a 0.94 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, .151 batting average against and 101 strikeouts in just 57.2 innings. Yoho’s ability to keep the ball in the park impressed, as he surrendered zero home runs and allowed only six extra-base hits.
Speaking about why he’s so successful striking out hitters, Yoho told Kyle Lobner of “T-Rat Talk,” “Just getting ahead early. If I can get to two strikes, I know it’s basically over for the hitter, and that’s been my focus … getting to two strikes as quick as possible and then putting guys away.”
