Trevor Williams
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2018Old Geezers14144083099.27841427783.70
2019Old Geezers3131931770219.01548986161263.66
2020Old Geezers00000000.0000000.00
2021Old Geezers00000000.0000000.00
2023Rampage3700044055.051321245115.24
2024Rampage00000000.0000000.00
2025Rampage220010014.07451622.57
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Dec 7 2022Williams has discussed a possible reunion with the Mets, Andy Martino of SNY.tv reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Martino notes that the Mets are "not the only team in" on the right-hander, so it would appear they have a little competition. Williams, 30, pitched well in a swingman role in 2022, holding a 3.21 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 84:23 K:BB ratio across 89.2 innings.
Oct 7 2022Williams wasn't included on the Mets' roster for the NL Wild Card Series against the Padres on Friday, Deesha Thosar of Fox Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams delivered a quality start in the regular-season finale but unsurprisingly won't be in the rotation for the wild-card round. The 30-year-old had a 3.21 ERA and 84:23 K:BB over 89.2 innings this year and could receive roster consideration in later rounds as both a starter and long-relief option should the Mets advance.
Oct 6 2022Williams (3-5) earned the win Wednesday against the Nationals. He allowed two runs on six hits while striking out six over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander didn't officially make the start, but he did handle the majority of the workload on Wednesday after replacing opener Mychal Givens to begin the second inning. Williams retired the first 10 batters he faced before allowing a one-out single to Cesar Hernandez in the fifth, who then came in to score on a homer from Alex Call on the very next pitch. Williams would only allow two more batters to reach base over his final two innings. He has not allowed more than two runs in any appearance since July 2, carrying a 2.83 ERA with 45 strikeouts to only 10 walks over that stretch. That run propelled him to a strong final line for 2022, with a 3.21 ERA and 84:23 K:BB across 89.2 innings.
Oct 5 2022Williams is no longer starting Wednesday against the Nationals after Mychal Givens (illness) was reinstated from the COVID-19 injured list to serve as the starter, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets haven't given any indication that Williams is unavailable Wednesday, so it seems likely that he'll be an option to serve as a bulk reliever behind Givens against Washington. Williams allowed at least one run in each of his six appearances in September, posting a 5.14 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in 14 innings over that stretch.
Sep 5 2022Williams tossed 4.1 innings out of the bullpen in Sunday's 7-1 loss to the Nationals, striking out three while allowing two earned runs on five hits and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams made his first appearance since Aug. 20, when he picked up a spot start in a doubleheader game in Philadelphia. The Mets have since condensed their rotation to five men and also returned Carlos Carrasco from the injured list Sunday, though he only gave them 2.2 innings Sunday before Williams was summoned in long relief. Looking ahead, expect most of Williams' opportunities to come in mop-up scenarios out of the bullpen.
Aug 20 2022Williams allowed four hits and two walks while striking out three across four scoreless innings in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Phillies. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was forced into the rotation due to the doubleheader and also because Taijuan Walker (back) and Carlos Carrasco (oblique) are both unavailable. Williams has pitched primarily out of the bullpen this season and wasn't fully stretched out, causing the short outing. However, he was effective while he remained on the mound, holding the Phillies without an extra-base hit. If Walker can return for a start Tuesday as currently projected, Williams will likely shift back to the bullpen.
Jul 14 2022Williams allowed three hits and struck out four in three scoreless innings to earn the save in Thursday's 8-0 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams has bounced between the rotation and the bullpen this year. Three of his last four appearances came as a starter, but the return of Chris Bassitt from the COVID-19-related injured list looks to have sent Williams back to a long-relief role. He excelled in that usage Thursday, throwing two perfect frames before escaping a bases-loaded jam he created in the ninth. This was his first big-league save, as he has far more experience as a starter than as a reliever. He's pitched to a steady 3.56 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 53:14 K:BB in 55.2 innings overall. With Jacob deGrom likely back shortly after the All-Star break, Williams looks likely to be in the bullpen for the foreseeable future.
Jul 7 2022Williams (2-5) allowed two hits and no walks while striking out seven across seven scoreless innings to earn the win Thursday against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams made his second consecutive turn through the rotation in place of Chris Bassitt (illness). Williams was excellent, as he allowed only one extra-base hit and also struck out a season-best seven hitters. Despite the strong outing, he's likely to return to the bullpen for the time being as Bassitt will be activated from the COVID-19 injured list prior to starting Friday.
Jul 5 2022Williams is scheduled to start Thursday's series opener with the Marlins in New York. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Chris Bassitt (illness) won't be ready to return from the COVID-19-related injured list until the weekend at the soonest, so Williams will pick up a second turn through the rotation as a result. Williams most recently made his seventh start of the season Saturday against the Rangers, lasting just 3.2 innings while surrendering five earned runs on five hits and one walk.
Jul 2 2022Williams (1-5) took the loss against Texas on Saturday, allowing five runs on five hits and one walk while striking out three batters over 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams started on short notice after Chris Bassitt landed one the COVID-19-related injured list Friday. The spot start wasn't entirely new for Williams -- he has been the opener for seven of his 15 appearances on the campaign -- but it may have contributed to the poor outing. Of the five hits Williams gave up, four went for extra bases, including three that left the park. Prior to Saturday, the veteran right-hander hadn't given up more than two long balls in any outing. He now has a 4.34 ERA and 1.34 WHIP over 45.2 innings this season.
Jul 1 2022Williams will start Saturday against the Rangers, Deesha Thosar of the New York Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams has filled a swingman role this season, starting six games and relieving in eight more. He pitched in relief in his most recent outing Tuesday against the Astros, throwing 2.1 frames, but he's needed in the rotation again after Chris Bassitt landed on the COVID-19 injured list.
Jun 21 2022Williams (1-4) allowed three runs on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts in four innings, taking the loss Tuesday versus the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The damage on Williams' line came on a pair of third-inning home runs. Jose Altuve hit a solo shot and Yordan Alvarez added a two-run blast, which was too much for the Mets to recover from in this contest. Williams has bounced between the bullpen and the rotation, logging six starts in 13 appearances. He owns a 3.86 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 35:11 K:BB and a blown save in 39.2 innings overall. With Max Scherzer (oblique) nearing a return, Williams is likely to be ticketed back to a long relief role soon, though he'll remain a top option on the major-league roster to make spot starts when needed.
Jun 20 2022The Mets list Williams as their starting pitcher for Tuesday's game in Houston, Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams has made his last two appearances as a reliever, but with Tylor Megill (shoulder) recently returning to the injured list, the Mets will need Williams to step back in the rotation this week. After he makes his sixth start of the season Tuesday, Williams could be headed back to the bullpen. Max Scherzer (oblique) is scheduled to make a rehab start at Double-A Binghamton on Tuesday, and if all goes well, he would be in line to return from the IL to replace Williams in the rotation on Sunday in Miami.
Jun 13 2022Williams isn't listed among the Mets' starting pitchers for their upcoming three-game series against the Brewers, suggesting he's been moved to a bullpen role, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Due to an off day last Thursday along with Tylor Megill's return from the injured list, the Mets got by with a four-man rotation last week that didn't include either Williams or David Peterson. Both pitchers appeared out of the bullpen during the Mets' three-game weekend series against the Angels, with Williams working in Saturday's 11-6 loss and tossing 0.2 scoreless innings. The Mets will transition back to a five-man rotation this week, but with Peterson set to take the hill Wednesday, Williams looks like he'll maintain a spot in the bullpen as a long-relief option moving forward.
Jun 5 2022Williams didn't factor into the decision during Sunday's 5-4 win against the Dodgers, allowing two runs on six hits with five strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams calmed down after surrendering a two-run Trea Turner home run in the first inning to keep Los Angeles off the board while excelling with five whiffs in five innings. The 30-year-old has now limited the damage to two runs or fewer in five of his last six appearances, dropping his ERA from 8.59 to 3.58. Williams is scheduled to pitch again next weekend against the Angels.
Jun 1 2022Williams (1-3) picked up the win in Tuesday's 10-0 rout of the Nationals, allowing three hits and two walks over five scoreless innings while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander wasn't dominant, but he didn't give up much hard contact as all three hits off him were singles, and the Mets' offense did the rest. Williams also lasted five innings for the first time in four starts and nine appearances this season, giving him a rosier fantasy outlook if he can continue to last long enough to qualify for wins while acting as a stopgap in New York's injury-plagued rotation. He'll take a 3.58 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 23:6 K:BB through 27.2 innings into his next outing.
May 29 2022Williams will start Tuesday's game against the Nationals at Citi Field, Mark Zuckerman of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After making a spot start May 21 in Colorado, Williams made his most recent appearance out of the bullpen Wednesday in San Francisco. With starter Thomas Szapucki getting tagged for nine earned runs over 1.1 innings before exiting that contest, Williams ended up saving the bullpen by striking out five over 3.2 scoreless frames. He tossed 53 pitches in that outing and should be reasonably stretched out as he slots back into the rotation for what should be a two-start week. Williams' second turn is expected to come next Sunday in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.
May 21 2022Williams (0-3) took the loss during Saturday's 11-3 defeat at the hands of the Rockies, allowing four runs on three hits with two strikeouts in four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams served up two-run homers in the first and second innings to fall behind early and New York wasn't able to recover. The 30-year-old fired 32 of 52 pitches for strikes with only two of the swinging variety, and Williams should stick around the rotation despite the mediocre performance as New York deals with multiple injuries to starters.
May 20 2022Williams will start Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader against the Rockies, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams made his second start of the season Tuesday and threw 65 pitches over four scoreless frames, and he'll take the mound again Saturday on three days rest. The 30-year-old should remain in the Mets' starting rotation for the foreseeable future given the injuries to Jacob deGrom (shoulder), Max Scherzer (oblique) and Tylor Megill (biceps).
May 18 2022Williams gave up four hits across four scoreless innings but didn't factor into the decision in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals. He struck out six without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his second start of the season, Williams baffled the Cards over 65 pitches (46 strikes) but wasn't stretched out enough to earn a win for his efforts in a 3-1 victory. With Tylor Megill (biceps) on the injured list, Williams figured to hang onto a rotation spot for a while, but his track record suggests he'll be volatile in that role.
May 16 2022Williams and the Mets won't play against the Cardinals on Monday after the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Deesha Thosar of the New York Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Monday's matchup will be made up as part of a doubleheader Tuesday. Williams will take the mound in one of the games during the twin bill, while Taijuan Walker will start in the other matchup, according to Thosar.
May 15 2022Manager Buck Showalter said Williams is likely to start Monday's game against the Cardinals, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander last pitched Wednesday and covered 3.2 frames in long relief, and he'll make a spot start Monday after originally-scheduled starter Tylor Megill (biceps) was placed on the injured list. Williams threw 51 pitches during that outing, so he'll likely need to be efficient to have a chance of sticking around for the necessary five innings to potentially pick up a win.
May 12 2022Williams struck out two and worked around two hits and a walk over 3.2 scoreless innings out of the bullpen in Wednesday's 8-3 loss to the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The appearance was Williams' second out of the bullpen since he lasted only two innings in an April 23 spot start against the Diamondbacks. Due to the heavy workload he handled Wednesday, Williams likely won't be available in relief in Thursday's series finale in Washington.
Apr 24 2022Williams (0-2) took the loss Saturday, coughing up four runs on seven hits over two-plus innings as the Mets fell 5-2 to the Diamondbacks. He didn't walk or strike out a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander pitched to contact, throwing 39 of 62 pitches for strikes, and while only one of the hits off Williams went for extra bases, most of them weren't cheapies. His 9.82 ERA through three appearances and 3.2 innings actually understates his struggles, as he's given up two unearned runs as well, and the 29-year-old is one of the most likely candidates in the Mets' bullpen to lose his spot when rosters shrink at the beginning of May -- if he doesn't get optioned to Triple-A Syracuse before then.
Apr 23 2022Williams is slated to start Saturday's game against the Diamondbacks in Arizona, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams has covered a total of 1.2 innings between his two relief appearances on the season, but he'll be pressed into a starting role Saturday after a rainout earlier in the week required the Mets to break add an extra man to the rotation temporarily. According to Puma, manager Buck Showalter said Williams "would be more than an opener" Saturday, but fantasy managers should temper expectations for the right-hander's workload, given that he isn't fully built up for starting duty.
Apr 11 2022Williams (0-1) got tagged with the loss Sunday against the Nationals, giving up two unearned runs on two hits in one inning of relief. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Mets manager Buck Showalter said before the game he wanted to find work for his two bullpen arms -- Williams and Chasen Shreve -- that hadn't pitched yet this season, and he stuck to his guns even with the team clinging to a 2-1 lead heading into the eighth inning. Shreve, who had relieved Carlos Carrasco back in the sixth, gave up a leadoff single, and rather than turn to high-leverage relievers like Seth Lugo, Trevor May or Adam Ottavino, Showalter instead handed the ball to Williams. The result was a three-run Nats rally. The right-hander got no help from his defense, but the outing still reinforced that Williams is a better fit for middle relief and lower-leverage spots. He had zero wins, saves or holds last year in 10 appearances for the Mets in 2021 after coming over from the Pirates.
Oct 2 2021Williams won't start Saturday's game in Atlanta, but he could be deployed as a primary pitcher out of the bullpen in Sunday's season finale, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Luis Rojas said earlier in the week that Williams would start the Mets' penultimate game of the season, but Carlos Carrasco will instead stay on turn in the rotation to take the hill Saturday. The late change probably works out favorably for Williams, who likely wouldn't have worked deep into Saturday's outing after having covered four innings in long relief behind Syndergaard just three days earlier. Assuming the Mets elect not to use Marcus Stroman -- who had been lined up to start Sunday -- out of the bullpen, Williams would make for the most logical candidate to follow Syndergaard again. The Mets aren't expected to have Syndergaard pitch more than an inning or two before turning the game over the bullpen.
Oct 1 2021Mets manager Luis Rojas said Williams will start Saturday's game in Atlanta, Anthony Rieber of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams' most recent appearance came in the second game of a doubleheader with the Marlins on Tuesday, when he followed opener Noah Syndergaard and covered four innings out of the bullpen. Though Syndergaard is on tap to serve as an opener again in Sunday's season finale, the Mets won't have Williams follow him, as the right-hander will instead get the chance to pick up his 16th start of the season a day earlier. Because he'll be returning to the mound on three days' rest, Williams likely won't be asked to cover more than 4-to-5 innings.
Sep 29 2021Williams tossed four innings in relief Tuesday in the Mets' 2-1 win over the Marlins in the second game of a doubleheader. He gave up a run on five hits and no walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With starting pitcher Noah Syndergaard (elbow) limited to one inning in his return from the 60-day injured list, Williams was needed to work in bulk relief behind him. Williams looked good during his time on the mound, with his six strikeouts marking his highest total since July 25. After tossing 70 pitches Tuesday, Williams likely won't be available out of the bullpen again until Sunday's season finale in Atlanta.
Sep 6 2021Williams didn't factor into the decision in Monday's 4-3 loss to the Nationals, allowing two runs on 10 hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Nats had at least one runner in scoring position in every inning against Williams, but the right-hander avoided any big rallies and was actually in line for a win when the Mets grabbed a 3-2 lead in the top of the sixth inning while he was still the pitcher of record. Unfortunately, Edwin Diaz blew the save in the ninth. Williams has a remarkable 1.50 ERA through 24.1 innings since joining the Mets in August to fill a swingman role, but his 1.33 WHIP and 12:6 K:BB over that stretch highlight how lucky he's been for his new club.
Sep 5 2021Williams is scheduled to start Monday's game against the Nationals in Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Because the Mets played five games in four days to close out the weekend, Williams will be needed to make his third start for New York and his second in less than a week. While filling a swingman role in his first four outings for the Mets, Williams has impressed, covering 13 innings in total while submitting a 0.69 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. Unless the Mets expand their rotation to six men after Monday's contest, the team won't have a starting role open for Williams, so he should be headed back to the bullpen following his outing in Washington.
Sep 1 2021Williams didn't factor into the decision in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Marlins, allowing one unearned run on four hits over 4.1 innings. He struck out four without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Getting a spot start in the second game of a makeshift doubleheader after the two teams completed a suspended game from April earlier in the day, Williams held Miami in check over 57 pitches (44 strikes), but he didn't last long enough to quality for the win. The 29-year-old has been very effective in a swing man role since joining the Mets, posting a 0.69 ERA, 0.92 WHIP and 9:4 K:BB over 13 innings while getting starts in two of his four appearances.
Aug 31 2021Williams is scheduled to start the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader with the Marlins, Field Level Media reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Taijuan Walker will get the "start" for the first game of the twin bill, which is the resumption of a game that was suspended with one out in the top of the first inning back on April 11. Since the nightcap will be a seven-inning game, Williams should have a good chance to factor into the decision even if the Mets decide to cap his pitch count, given that he's made a pair of relief appearances of only two innings and 2.1 innings since being called up from Triple-A Syracuse on Aug. 16. Williams will likely return to a bullpen role after the spot start.
Aug 16 2021Williams was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse on Monday, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams made his team debut as a starter Thursday and allowed a run on three hits and two walks while striking out two in 4.1 innings. The right-hander will provide bullpen depth for the Mets after Geoff Hartlieb was optioned to Triple-A on Monday.
Aug 13 2021Williams was returned to Triple-A Syracuse on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was recalled to make a spot start against the Nationals on Thursday, and he allowed a run on three hits and two walks while striking out two in 4.1 innings. While he's one of the top candidates to join the Mets' rotation if injuries occur, he'll rejoin the minor-league club.
Aug 11 2021The Mets are expected to recall Williams from Triple-A Syracuse to start Thursday's game against the Nationals, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Tuesday's contest was suspended in the second inning due to inclement weather, the Mets and Nationals are playing a de facto doubleheader Wednesday. The twin bill creates a stretch of six games in five days for the Mets, so Williams will likely slot into the rotation temporarily as the team's No. 6 starter. Before being acquired from the Cubs ahead of the trade deadline, Williams made 13 appearances (12 starts) in the big leagues, logging a 5.06 ERA and 1.53 WHIP while striking out 61 over 58.2 innings.
Jul 30 2021Williams was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse by the Mets after being acquired in a trade with the Cubs on Friday, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets presumably wanted Williams to bolster their rotation depth, but they don't actually need that depth right now. He'll wait in the minors until called upon, though the news that Jacob deGrom (forearm) suffered a setback Friday could mean Williams is needed sooner rather than later.
Jul 25 2021Williams (4-2) tossed 6.1 scoreless innings to record the win Sunday against the Diamondbacks. He allowed five hits and no walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his second straight start coming out of the All-Star break, Williams posted his best line of the season, lowering his ERA to 5.06 in the process. With Jake Arrieta (hamstring) on the injured list, Williams should stick in the rotation for now, especially based on his sharp performance Sunday. He currently lines up to face the Nationals on Friday in his next scheduled start.
Jul 20 2021Williams allowed four earned runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out three across five innings Tuesday against the Cardinals. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams made his first start since May 26 and worked two scoreless innings to begin the outing. However, he stumbled from there, allowing one earned run in the third frame and three more in the fourth. Williams has had an uninspiring campaign to this point, posting a 5.68 ERA with a 55:22 K:BB across 52.1 innings. Even so, he should have a chance to stick in the rotation with Jake Arrieta (hamstring) sidelined.
Jul 18 2021Williams is scheduled to start Tuesday's game against the Cardinals in St. Louis, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jake Arrieta (hamstring) isn't available to begin the second half, so Williams will step into the Chicago rotation as the fifth starter after he previously worked as a bulk reliever July 6 in his first outing back from the injured list. Before missing time while recovering from appendicitis, Williams started in each of his first 10 appearances of the season and went 3-2 with a 5.36 ERA and 1.60 WHIP.
Jul 11 2021Williams will not start Sunday after the game against St. Louis was postponed, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty takes a 5.51 ERA and a 1.63 WHIP into the All-Star break. It's unclear whether Williams will be in the Cubs' rotation for the second half or if Jake Arrieta (hamstring) will replace him once healthy.
Jul 8 2021Williams will start Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Maddie Lee of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was expected to pitch out of the bullpen until the All-Star break, but he'll take the mound to begin Sunday's series finale after Jake Arrieta (hamstring) was placed on the injured list Wednesday. The right-hander served as a bulk reliever Tuesday and allowed seven runs (three earned) on six hits and a walk while striking out three in 3.2 innings.
Jul 6 2021Williams (abdomen) allowed seven runs (three earned) on six hits and a walk with three strikeouts in 3.2 innings during Tuesday's 15-10 loss to Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams missed over a month while recovering from an appendectomy. He threw 49 of his 74 pitches for strikes in the long-relief assignment, but he also yielded a solo shot to Rhys Hoskins in the seventh inning. The Cubs' defense did Williams few favors in his return, allowing four runs to be tacked onto his line in the seventh. The right-hander owns a 5.51 ERA, 1.63 WHIP and 52:21 K:BB across 47.1 innings this season. He'll operate out of the bullpen for now, but he could be a candidate to fill a job in the rotation during the second half of the season.
Jul 5 2021Williams (abdomen) completed his second rehab start at Triple-A Iowa on Friday, working five innings while giving up an unearned run on two hits and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams tossed 58 pitches (45 strikes) in the outing, so he's seemingly capable of handling a starter's workload if the Cubs are prepared to activate him from the injured list. The 29-year-old right-hander has been on the shelf since May 31 while recovering from an emergency appendectomy.
Jun 25 2021Williams (abdomen) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa on Sunday, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams has been sidelined since the end of May, but he's been ramping up his intensity across the last several weeks. He threw a simulated inning Tuesday and threw a bullpen session Thursday, and the start of his rehab assignment should allow him to increase his pitch count. It's not yet clear how many rehab games the right-hander could require before he returns to the majors, but he's progressing well in his recovery.
Jun 24 2021Williams (abdomen) threw a bullpen session Thursday and could rejoin the team soon. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams threw a simulated inning Tuesday and ramped up his activity two days later. Manager David Ross said he wants to build up the righty's innings before he rejoins the team, but that could happen in the next few days. Williams could bump Alec Mills to the bullpen when he returns, though the Cubs may stay somewhat fluid with the No. 5 spot in their rotation to manage workloads this season.
Jun 22 2021Williams (abdomen) threw a simulated inning Tuesday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty will likely be ready for a rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa after one more session on the mound. Williams' last start before the injury was arguably his best of 2021, as he allowed one run in six innings and struck out seven hitters. It remains unclear when exactly Williams will return to the Cubs, but the end of June remains a realistic expectation.
Jun 6 2021Wiliams (appendix) played light catch Sunday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams is beginning to ease back into baseball activities after requiring an appendectomy May 30, but since he hasn't been cleared for mound work yet, he appears unlikely to make it back from the 10-day injured list when first eligible this week. Kohl Stewart has made two straight starts in place of Williams and could get the nod when Williams' turn comes up again next weekend versus the Cardinals. Alec Mills (back), who built up to six innings in his most recent rehab outing June 2 at Triple-A Iowa, would represent another option to fill in for Williams.
May 31 2021Williams (appendicitis) was placed on the 10-day injured list Monday, Russell Dorsey of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was scheduled to start Monday's game against the Padres but underwent an appendectomy Sunday. He doesn't have a timetable for his return, but he's scheduled to meet with a doctor Thursday, Gordon Wittenmyer of NBC Sports Chicago reports. Right-hander Kohl Stewart was recalled to start Monday's game, and he could continue to start in Williams' place until he's cleared to return.
May 30 2021Williams won't make his scheduled start Monday against the Padres after he underwent an appendectomy Sunday, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cubs haven't yet announced who will take Williams' place as the starter for Monday's series opener against the Padres. It's not yet clear whether the right-hander will be forced to miss more than one turn through the rotation following his procedure.
May 26 2021Williams (3-2) pitched six innings of one-run ball to earn the win Wednesday against the Pirates. He allowed three hits and no walks while striking out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his third appearance of the season against his former team, Williams was much sharper than in the previous two outings, when he allowed seven earned runs across just 7.1 innings. This was also the longest the righty has lasted in a game since his first start of the year back on April 5, and he was just one off his season high in strikeouts. Williams will look to build on the strong outing in his next scheduled start Monday against the Padres.
May 20 2021Williams did not factor into the decision during Thursday's win over the Nationals, allowing two runs on five hits and a pair of walks while striking out five across 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All of his damage came via back-to-back long balls off the bats of Josh Bell and Kyle Schwarber in the first inning. After the shaky frame that also included a leadoff walk and a single, Williams was able to shut Washington down for the rest of his short outing, although the 29-year-old did show some improvement after getting yanked after two innings and 42 pitches Saturday in Detroit. Williams has allowed 13 runs on 20 hits and 10 walks over last four starts, bringing his season stat line to a 5.97 ERA and 1.78 WHIP. The right-hander's next projected start comes on the road Wednesday at Pittsburgh.
May 16 2021Williams didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 9-8 extra-inning loss to the Tigers, giving up three runs on two hits and two walks over two innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander got staked to a 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning but immediately squandered it by coughing up three runs in the bottom of the frame, and after Williams escaped another jam in the second, Cubs manager David Ross had seen enough. Williams hadn't lasted longer than four innings in any of his last three starts, with the rough patch ballooning his ERA to 6.27, and his 11.4 percent walk rate on the year is the worst of his career.
May 8 2021Williams gave up two runs on five hits and two walks over four innings during Saturday's 3-2 win over the Pirates. He had six strikeouts and didn't factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander surrendered a two-run homer to Ka'ai Tom during the fourth inning, but he otherwise kept Pittsburgh off the board. The Cubs didn't score the game-deciding run until the seventh inning, so he wouldn't have earned the victory even if he lasted the five frames necessary to earn a win. Williams has a 5.81 ERA, 1.74 WHIP and 35:16 K:BB across 31 innings this season.
May 2 2021Williams allowed six runs on six hits and four walks across 2.2 innings and did not factor into the decision Sunday against the Reds. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams probably deserved his third loss of the season, but the Cubs rallied from an early deficit to tie the game before falling 13-12 in 10 innings, so the righty escaped the decision. It was still the worst outing of the year so far for Williams, who was tagged for three home runs, and it pushed his ERA up to 6.00 through six starts. He'll look to get back on track his next time out Saturday against the Pirates.
Apr 27 2021Williams (2-2) allowed two runs on six hits across five innings to take the loss Tuesday against Atlanta. He walked two and struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams set a new season high with the eight strikeouts, but he got zero run support and was saddled with his second loss in five starts. Other than when he allowed five runs on 10 hits across 3.1 innings back on April 11, the righty has been solid, allowing two or fewer runs in his other four outings. Williams will take a 4.44 ERA into his next scheduled start Sunday against the Reds.
Apr 22 2021Williams did not factor into the decision during Thursday's win over the Mets, allowing two runs on five hits and a walk while striking out six over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All of the damage charged to Williams came from a two-run home run off the bat of Pete Alonso in the fourth inning. Otherwise, the 28-year-old turned in a decent showing, leaving the game positioned for the win before the bullpen erased the lead in the seventh. Williams was also strong in his last appearance, allowing only one run in five frames. Notably, the right-hander has given up two or fewer runs in three of his first four outings. He'll look to notch his third win of the year on the road Tuesday at Atlanta.
Apr 17 2021Williams (2-1) allowed one run on four hits and three walks while fanning four across five innings in Saturday's win over the Braves. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams had a rough performance in his previous outing when he allowed five runs across 3.1 innings at Pittsburgh, but he bounced back admirably here and ended just three outs away from what would've been his second quality start of the campaign. The right-hander has given up two or fewer runs in two of his first three outings of the campaign, and his upcoming start is scheduled for next week at home against the Mets.
Apr 11 2021Williams (1-1) allowed five runs on 10 hits and two walks while striking out three in 3.1 innings in a loss to the Pirates on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was quite sharp in his Cubs debut Monday, but he was unable to find the same success against his former team Sunday. The right-hander allowed baserunners in every inning and was unable to get much support from the Cubs' faltering offense. Through his first two starts with Chicago, Williams has posted a 6.75 ERA and 1.71 WHIP in 9.1 innings. Williams lines up to make his next start at home against Atlanta on Saturday.
Apr 5 2021Williams (1-0) allowed two runs across six innings of work to earn the win Monday against the Brewers. He gave up two hits and two walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his team debut after spending his first five seasons with the Pirates, Williams looked good against a familiar NL Central opponent. The six strikeouts in six innings stand out, as the righty has never posted a K/9 above 8.0 for a season, so he generally relies more on his defense, though fantasy managers certainly won't complain about the result. Williams will look to keep it rolling when he takes on his former Pittsburgh club Sunday.
Mar 23 2021Williams is expected to begin the season as the Cubs' No. 4 pitcher, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kyle Hendricks was officially named the Opening Day starter Tuesday, and he's expected to be followed by Jake Arrieta and Zach Davies. Manager David Ross didn't confirm the order after Hendricks, but it makes sense based on how the pitchers have lined up this spring. Williams struggled last year with the Pirates, posting a 6.18 ERA and 1.57 WHIP across 55.1 innings, but he's turned in better results not too long ago (3.11 ERA and 1.18 WHIP across 170.2 innings in 2018), so the Cubs are hoping he can recapture that form.
Mar 16 2021Williams has a 1.04 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and seven strikeouts across 8.2 Cactus League innings so far. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams actually leads the Cubs in innings pitched to date, as the organization is taking a long look at the veteran. He's mostly been a starter in the majors, but he's competing with Alec Mills and Adbert Alzolay for one of two open rotation spots, so someone could end up getting bumped to the bullpen, though the team could experiment with a six-man rotation as well.
Mar 9 2021Manager David Ross said Williams and a handful of other pitchers could shift between the rotation and the bullpen in an effort to manage workloads this season, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kyle Hendricks, Jake Arrieta and Zach Davies are expected to lead the Chicago rotation, but beyond that trio, roles are less clear. Ross said it's too early to say Williams is a full-time starter. Instead, the veteran righty could potentially work in more of a swing role, along with the likes of Adbert Alzolay and Alec Mills, as the team goes from 60 games to 162. "I don't want to put anybody in certain boxes," Ross said. "Let's continue to just see how that pans out and how guys are throwing, because like I've said a number of times, I think it's going to take a number of guys to get through this season." Williams last appeared out of the bullpen back in 2017, when he made 25 starts and six additional appearances.
Mar 4 2021Williams has been working on his slider grip during spring training, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams is seeking to add variation to his slider, shaping the pitch differently based on his matchup. He generated some swings and misses with the new version of the pitch in his spring debut with the Cubs. Williams has a chance to claim the fifth starter role with the club to begin the regular season.
Jan 30 2021Williams signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Cubs on Saturday, Russell Dorsey of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was quite a useful pitcher for the Pirates in 2018, recording a 3.11 ERA in 31 starts, though that came with some mediocre peripherals and a 4.54 xFIP. He's been significantly worse over the past two years, recording a combined 5.60 ERA in 37 starts. The Cubs presumably aren't looking for Williams to do much more than compete for a spot at the back of the rotation. His main competition for that role at the moment appears to be Kohl Stewart.
Nov 20 2020Williams was designated for assignment Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 6.18 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 49:21 K:BB Williams logged in 55.1 innings this past season sealed his fate with this new front office. He could get a look in another organization as a back-end starter or he could transition into a reliever.
Sep 24 2020Williams (2-8) allowed just one run on three hits (one home run) and three walks while striking out four across 5.2 innings Wednesday as he earned the win in his final start of 2020. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams came into Wednesday's start having given up the most earned runs in the league (37), the most home runs (14) and had lost more games (8) than any other pitcher in baseball. It originally looked like it would be another poor outing for the 28-year-old after giving up a first-inning solo home run to Anthony Rizzo but he settled in afterwards and was able to hold the Cubs' hitters in check for the rest of his outing. 2020 was a season to forget for Williams who finishes with a 6.18 ERA, 1.57 WHIP and 49:21 K:BB across 55.1 innings pitched.
Sep 19 2020Williams (1-8) took the loss in the first game of Friday's doubleheader as the Pirates were downed 6-5 by the Cardinals, surrendering six runs (five earned) on seven hits over 4.1 innings. He struck out three without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the first time all season Williams hasn't issued a free pass, but that was about the only bright spot in an otherwise poor outing. The 28-year-old served up multiple homers for the third straight start and the fourth time in five trips to the mound, and on the year he now carries a 6.70 ERA, 1.63 WHIP, 45:18 K:BB and 2.54 HR/9 through 49.2 innings while also leading the league in losses. He'll get one more start Wednesday, at home against the Cubs.
Sep 13 2020Williams (1-7) took the loss Saturday as the Pirates were downed 7-4 by the Royals, surrendering six runs on 10 hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Two of the 10 hits left the yard, and Williams struggled in almost every frame. The right-hander threw 65 of 101 pitches for strikes as he lost his fourth straight decision. Williams will carry a 6.35 ERA, 1.63 WHIP and 42:18 K:BB through 45.1 innings into his next outing Thursday, at home against the Cardinals.
Sep 6 2020Williams (1-6) took the loss Saturday as the Pirates were downed 6-2 by the Reds, coughing up five runs on five hits -- including three home runs -- and three walks. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second time this season the right-hander has served up three homers in a game, and his HR/9 now stands at a ghastly 2.23. Williams has struck out batters at a career-high 21.0 percent clip in 2020, but that's about the only silver lining to his performance so far. He'll carry a 5.80 ERA and 1.51 WHIP through 40.1 innings into his next outing Saturday in Kansas City.
Aug 31 2020Williams gave up five runs (three earned) on seven hits and two walks over four innings versus the Brewers on Monday. He struck out six and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams' struggles were not his alone, as the Pirates made two errors that led to runs in the second and fourth innings. The 28-year-old didn't help his own cause much, allowing eight or more baseunners for the fourth straight start. Williams has a 5.50 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and 32:12 K:BB through 34.1 innings this season. He'll look for better control Saturday versus the Reds.
Aug 26 2020Williams (1-5) took the loss Wednesday against the White Sox after giving up eight runs on nine hits with three strikeouts and two walks over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander entered Wednesday with three homers allowed through his first five starts of the season, but Chicago doubled up that total. Williams has a 5.34 ERA, 1.45 WHIP and 26:10 K:BB through 30.1 innings, and he'll look to get back on track Monday at Milwaukee.
Aug 20 2020Williams (1-4) took the loss Thursday as the Pirates were downed 2-0 by Cleveland, allowing one run on six hits and two walks over four innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a solid, if inefficient, performance -- Williams needed 90 pitches (52 strikes) to record 12 outs -- but with Shane Bieber on the mound for the opposition, he had no margin for error. Despite his poor record, Williams has a respectable 3.70 ERA and 23:8 K:BB through 24.1 innings, and he'll look for more support from his offense in his next outing Wednesday, on the road against the White Sox.
Aug 17 2020Williams is slated to start against the Indians on Thursday, DK Pittsburgh Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's increased his strikeout rate year-over-year from 7.0 K/9 to 8.0 K/9, but his xFIP of 4.99 shows he's outperformed his current 3.98 ERA. Williams' four-seam fastball velocity has dipped slightly to 91.8 mph, but the cerebral righty is throwing breaking pitches nearly 50 percent of the time, including a curve ball (5.2 percent) that's added a new wrinkle to his repertoire. Thursday will mark just his second start at PNC Park in five outings, where he holds a career 3.79 ERA (as compared to a 4.68 ERA on the road).
Aug 13 2020Williams (1-3) allowed three earned runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out four across five innings to earn the win Thursday against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Pirates jumped out to a 9-0 lead in the first two innings of the contest, allowing Williams to cruise to his first win of the season. The major damage against him came on a two-run home run by Nick Senzel in the fourth inning. Williams now maintains a 3.98 ERA across 20.1 innings this season, and has worked a combined 12.2 frames across his last two starts while allowing four earned runs. He'll look to keep his success going in his next outing, currently projected to come Tuesday against Cleveland.
Aug 12 2020Williams is slated to start Thursday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams will be making his first start in more than a week after he was initially slated to start Monday against the Cardinals before the entire three-game series was postponed due to a COVID-19 outbreak among St. Louis players and staff. The right-hander has made three turns through the rotation this season, going 0-3 with a 3.52 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 14:5 K:BB across 15.1 innings.
Aug 9 2020Williams won't start until at least Thursday since the Pirates' upcoming series against the Cardinals was postponed due to COVID-19-related concerns, Buster Olney of ESPN reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams was slated to take the mound for the series opener against St. Louis, but the Cardinals' season will remain on hold amid their COVID-19 outbreak. It's unclear what the Pirates' rotations are once the team returns to action, but Williams could be on track to start early in the team's upcoming series against the Reds.
Aug 8 2020Williams won't start Monday as the Cardinals' COVID-19 outbreak will cause another postponement, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: St. Louis hasn't played a game in over a week, which will extend to Monday's series opener. The final two games of the series Tuesday and Wednesday remain on the schedule for now, but that could change in the coming days.
Aug 5 2020Williams (0-3) allowed one earned run on three hits and one walk while striking out five across seven innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams held one of the better lineups around the league in check, with the only extra-base hit he allowed coming off the bat of Luis Arraez in the seventh inning. Prior to that, he had allowed just one Twin into scoring position and had retired 11 straight batters. Williams now has a 3.52 ERA across 15.1 innings this season, racking up a 14:5 K:BB. He'll look to duplicate this effectiveness in his next start, currently scheduled for Tuesday at St. Louis.
Jul 31 2020Williams (0-2) was tagged with the loss Friday against the Cubs. He gave up three runs (two earned) on four hits and three walks while fanning six across 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams retired the first five batters he faced, but things went downhill from the third inning onwards. It seems as if Williams' struggles during the 2019 season -- where he pitched to the tune of a 5.38 ERA -- remain in place for 2020 after two sub-par performances. His next start should come at home against the Twins on Aug. 5.
Jul 25 2020Williams (0-1) took the loss Saturday against the Cardinals after allowing three runs on five hits and one walk over 3.2 innings. He had three strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander ran into trouble during the fourth inning, surrendering two runs on four hits and a wild pitch, and he was pulled rather than being allowed to face Kolton Wong a third time. Williams was a strong rotation piece in 2018 with a 3.11 ERA, but he struggled last season with a 5.38 ERA and isn't off to a great start in 2020. He lines up for a tough matchup against the Cubs on the road Friday.
Jul 19 2020Manager Derek Shelton said Sunday that Williams will start the Pirates' second game of the season, Adam Berry of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams struggled during spring training, but he was able to impress during summer camp and will play a prominent role in Pittsburgh's rotation to begin the season. The right-hander struggled with a 5.38 ERA and 1.41 WHIP over 145.2 innings last season, although he fared considerably better with current starting catcher Jacob Stallings behind the plate.
Mar 31 2020Williams, who enters 2020 as the Pirates' No. 3 starter, struggled throughout spring training with a 9.00 ERA in nine innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He gave up 12 hits and six walks in nine frames, though the gusty Florida winds contributed to his ineffectiveness. On the bright side, Williams permitted only one homer. In 2019, the righty saw his home run rate jump to 1.64 HR/9 from 0.51 HR/9 in 2017 and 1.17 HR/9 in 2018. Last year, the righty registered an 8.87 ERA in 10 starts with the recently released Elias Diaz behind the plate. With Francisco Cervelli and current starter Jacob Stallings catching, his earned-run average dropped to 3.67 (in 16 starts). Williams makes for an interesting endgame fantasy pick, especially if he can rebound anywhere close to the pitcher he was before 2019, when he compiled a 3.56 ERA in his first two full major-league campaigns.
Feb 29 2020Williams allowed four runs on four hits and two walks in one-plus innings Friday against Baltimore. He struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He pitched better than his line suggests but was squeezed by the home plate ump and poorly supported by his fielders. Williams left the game in the top of the second inning after throwing 46 pitches. The righty has surrendered eight runs in three spring innings and is looking to rebound from a poor 2019 showing, when he compiled a 5.38 ERA and 1.41 WHIP.
Feb 24 2020Williams gave up four earned runs on four hits and a walk in two innings Sunday against the Phillies. He hit one batter, threw one wild pitch and finished with zero strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams certainly didn't get off to a great Grapefruit League start, but he'll get plenty more chances as the team's third starter. The righty compiled an amazing second half in 2018 -- 1.29 ERA in 76.2 innings -- but he pitched closer to his expected numbers in 2019. His 5.38 ERA last summer nearly mirrored his xFIP of 5.25.
Jan 10 2020Williams agreed to a one-year, $2.825 million deal with the Pirates on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Adam Berry of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This is his first of three years as an arbitration-eligible player. Williams should break camp in the Pirates' rotation.
Sep 29 2019Williams allowed two runs on five hits with two walks and five strikeouts across seven innings while taking a loss against the Reds on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although it led to just two runs, Williams tossed up two more long balls Sunday, giving him a career-high 27 homers allowed this season. He yielded just 15 a year ago, which is why his ERA was more than 2.00 runs better in 2018. Williams started experiencing problems giving up homers when he returned from an injury in the middle of June, and it immediately hurt his ERA. He finishes the season 7-9 with a disappointing 5.38 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 113 strikeouts in 145.2 innings.
Sep 22 2019Williams (7-8) allowed two runs on three hits with two walks and six strikeouts across five innings while taking a loss against the Brewers on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was better in this one, but he gave up two more homers, which has been too common since he returned from injury in June. Over his last 16 starts since that return from the IL on June 19, Williams has tossed up 21 homers. As a result, he owns a 6.91 ERA during that stretch. Overall, Williams has a 5.52 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 108 strikeouts in 138.2 innings this season. He will end the season with a start against the Reds at home Sunday.
Sep 15 2019Williams (7-7) gave up seven runs on six hits and three walks while striking out none through 2.1 innings to take the loss against the Cubs on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams gave up three runs in the first inning and was charged with four more runs in the third frame. This was easily his worst start of the month, as he had three quality starts in his previous four outings coming into this game. The right-hander has a 5.59 ERA with 102 strikeouts through 24 starts this season. Williams is scheduled to make his next start Saturday against the Brewers at Miller Park.
Sep 9 2019Williams didn't factor into the decision against the Giants on Monday, giving up four earned runs on eight hits over 5.2 innings, striking out six and walking three as the Pirates eventually won 6-4. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Williams had fired three straight quality starts coming into the contest, but he couldn't quite keep it rolling against the Giants, missing the benchmark by one out and one earned run. He's been pitching better lately, but still sports lackluster numbers on the season, with a 5.21 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 102:37 K:BB over 131.1 innings. The right-hander's next start is currently tabbed for a Saturday road matchup against the Cubs.
Sep 4 2019Williams didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 6-5 win over the Marlins, giving up three runs (two earned) on seven hits and a walk over six innings while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the right-hander's third straight quality start, and 11th of the season. Williams will carry a 5.16 ERA and 96:34 K:BB through 125.2 innings into his next outing Monday in San Francisco.
Aug 29 2019Williams (7-6) picked up the win against the Rockies on Thursday, giving up three earned runs on seven hits over seven innings, striking out six and walking none
Aug 24 2019Williams (6-6) pitched six shutout innings while allowing three hits with one walk and three strikeouts to earn a victory against the Reds on Saturday.
Aug 20 2019Williams (5-6) took the loss Monday, surrendering eight runs (six earned) on six hits and three walks over only two innings while striking out one as the Pirates
Aug 13 2019Williams (5-5) was credited with the win against the Angels on Tuesday, tossing five innings and giving up five runs on seven hits and five walks while striking
Aug 7 2019Williams (4-5) gave up six runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out one through five innings to take the loss against the Brewers on Wednesday.
Jul 28 2019Williams (3-4) allowed three runs on four hits with two walks and seven strikeouts across seven innings while taking a loss against the Mets on Saturday.
Jul 28 2019Williams (3-4) allowed three runs on four hits with two walks and seven strikeouts across seven innings while taking a loss against the Mets on Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 22 2019Williams allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits with two walks and seven strikeouts across five innings during a no-decision against the Cardinals on Monday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Williams (illness) will start Monday's game against the Cardinals, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Williams (illness) could start Monday,Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Williams (illness) could start Monday, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 19 2019Williams won't make his scheduled start<\/a> Saturday against the Phillies due to flu-like symptoms.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Williams (3-3) allowed eight runs on 11 hits with three walks and four strikeouts across 5.1 innings while taking a loss against the Cubs on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 8 2019Williams was reinstated from the paternity list Monday, Adam Berry of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 5 2019Williams will be placed on the paternity list<\/a> Saturday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 1 2019Williams (3-2) yielded five runs on nine hits and three walks across 5.2 innings Monday, striking out four batters and earning the win over the Cubs.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 28 2019Williams' next start<\/a> is scheduled for July 1 against the Cubs in Pittsburgh.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 25 2019Williams (2-2) allowed four earned runs on eight hits and no walks while striking out four across 6.2 innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Astros.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Williams didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 8-7 win over the Tigers, surrendering seven runs on nine hits over five innings while striking out seven.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 19 2019Williams (side) was activated<\/a> from the 10-day injured list ahead of his scheduled start Wednesday against the Tigers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 17 2019Williams (side) is listed as the Pirates' scheduled starter for Wednesday's game against the Tigers, Nubyjas Wilborn of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Williams (side) is tentatively scheduled to come off the IL to start Wednesday against the Tigers, John Perrotto of DKPittsburghSports.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 14 2019Williams (side) felt fine following his rehab start Thursday with Triple-A Indianapolis and is expected to rejoin Pittsburgh's rotation sometime next week, John Perrotto of DKPittsburghSports.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 12 2019Williams (side) is scheduled to make a rehab start Thursday at Triple-A Indianapolis, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 10 2019General manager Neal Huntington said Sunday that Williams (side) will make a rehab start at Triple-A Indianapolis this week, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 8 2019Williams (side) threw a simulated game Saturday, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Williams (side) threw a bullpen session Wednesday, Rob Biertempfel of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Pirates general manager Neal Huntington said Sunday that Williams (side) still has no timetable for a return but is throwing and feeling better, 93.7 The Fan<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Williams (side) has resumed throwing, Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 23 2019Williams (side) has been cleared to perform light rehab exercises but has yet to initiate a throwing program, Adam Berry of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019The Pirates will reassess Williams (oblique) in 10 days to determine whether he'll be ready to begin baseball activities, general manager Neal Huntington told 93.7 The Fan<\/a>.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 17 2019Williams was placed on the 10-day injured list Friday due to a right side strain, Adam Berry of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Williams left the fourth inning of Thursday's game with an apparent right oblique injury, John Perrotto of DKPittsburghSports.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Williams was removed from Thursday night's game<\/a> against the Padres due to right side discomfort.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 11 2019Williams (2-1) picked up the win in Friday's 2-1 victory over the Cardinals, allowing one run on nine hits and a walk over seven innings while striking out five.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 24 2018Williams (8-7) tossed six scoreless innings to earn a win Monday against the Indians, allowing four hits and two walks with one strikeout.Williams technically went the distance in this rain-shortened affair, keeping the home team off balance all evening while allowing just one man past first base. He threw strikes at a reasonable rate, but he induced just five swinging strikes and rather relied on weak contact to get outs. Though he scuffled a bit prior to the All-Star break, Williams closed the first half on a high note and has now gone 11 innings without allowing an earned run over his last two starts. He'll look to continue his recent success this weekend against the Mets.
Jul 11 2018Williams (7-7) got the win Wednesday, tossing five shutout innings with three strikeouts while allowing four hits and three walks against the Nationals.Williams didn't last long enough to qualify for a quality start, needing 81 pitches (48 strikes) just to get through five frames, but it was still a nice bounce-back effort after yielding nine runs over seven innings combined his last two times out. The righty doesn't have the most overpowering stuff, notching 71 strikeouts over 99 innings (6.5 K/9), so he's a bit more dependent on going deeper in games to turn in productive outings for fantasy purposes. The 26-year-old heads into the All-Star break with a 4.36 ERA.
Jul 6 2018Williams (6-7) surrendered five runs on five hits and two walks across 2.1 innings Friday as he took the loss to Philadelphia.Williams didn't last long, as the Phillies scored twice in the second and three times in the third before he was lifted. He's struggled over his last two starts, allowing nine runs on nine hits and four walks (seven innings). The 26-year-old sits with a dismal 4.60 ERA and 1.24 WHIP across 94 innings, but he'll look to bounce back in his next start, which is slated for Wednesday against Washington.
Jul 1 2018Williams (6-6) allowed four earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out four across 4.2 innings to take the loss Saturday against the Padres.Williams ran into most of his trouble when facing Wil Myers, who drove in three of the Padres' four runs. After a hot start to the season, Williams has now allowed at least four earned runs in six of his past 10 starts. With only 68 strikeouts across 91.2 innings, he presents a lot of risk without much upside, relegating his relevance mostly to deep leagues.
Jun 24 2018Williams (6-5) allowed three runs on five hits with no walks across six innings while taking the loss Sunday against the Diamondbacks. He struck out six.All the real damage to Williams' ledger came on early home runs, which included a two-run shot from David Peralta in the first inning and a solo job from John Ryan Murphy in the second. He cruised the rest of the way and finished with a quality start, but unfortunately the offense could do little against Clay Buchholz and the Arizona bullpen. Williams has pitched well over his last two starts, allowing three earned runs with a 13:2 K:BB across 13 total innings. He'll look to continue his recent form in a favorable matchup next weekend against the Padres.
Jun 18 2018Williams tossed seven shutout innings against the Brewers on Monday, allowing just one hit and two walks while matching a season high with seven strikeouts.He moved his fastball around the corners, throwing 61 of 96 pitches for strikes. Williams had allowed 17 earned runs in his last 18 innings and could've possibly lost his rotation spot with another bad outing. As it stands, the righty will look to make amends over the weekend against Arizona, against whom he surrendered eight runs (three earned) in three innings on June 12.
Jun 13 2018Williams (5-4) took the loss Tuesday, allowing eight runs (three earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out two over three innings against the Diamondbacks.Williams was done in early in this one, as three Pittsburgh errors in the opening frame led to a 37-pitch, six-run first inning. It's the second outing in a row the 26-year-old has lasted just three innings, and he hasn't made it more than five in any of his last four tries. Williams now has a 6.36 ERA in eight starts since the beginning of May, all but undoing an encouraging opening month. He'll look to get back on track Monday against the Brewers.
Jun 6 2018Williams didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 11-9 win over the Dodgers, giving up four runs on four hits and two walks over three innings while striking out two.In his shortest start of the season, Williams threw 41 of 65 pitches for strikes but wasn't fooling many hitters, generating only five swinging strikes. His early success is now a distant memory, as the right-hander has coughed up at least four runs in five of his last six outings to inflate his ERA to 4.18. Williams will next take the mound Monday on the road against the Diamondbacks.
May 31 2018Williams allowed five runs on nine hits and two walks while striking out four over five innings in Thursday's loss to the Cardinals. He did not factor into the decision.The Cardinals got to Williams early Thursday, putting up a four spot in the first inning on four hits and two walks. He navigated through the next three innings with no further damage before allowing an RBI single to Greg Garcia in the fifth. Williams got off to a surprisingly strong start this season but has now given up four or more runs in four of his last five starts. He'll look to right the ship in his upcoming Wednesday start against the Dodgers.
May 26 2018Williams (5-3) gave up four runs on seven hits and zero walks while striking out three in four innings Saturday, taking the loss against the Cardinals.Prior to this outing, his shortest start by innings was a five-inning start on May 9, and his shortest start by pitches was an 85-pitch outing on April 1. He only threw 65 pitches in this one, so it was his shortest start of the year by any measure. Williams will look to get back on track Thursday in St. Louis.
May 20 2018Williams allowed four earned runs on four hits while walking none and striking out five across six innings Sunday against the Padres. He did not factor into the decision.Williams allowed only four runners to reach base, but each of them came around to score, with the big blow being a two-run homer by Christian Villanueva in the fourth inning. Williams has found success early in the season by limiting hard contact despite generating just 6.1 K/9, and he now has a 3.05 ERA and 1.08 WHIP through 10 starts this season. His lack of strikeouts is a concern, however, as it not only diminishes his fantasy value but also makes it more difficult for him to work out of jams as was illustrated by his start on Sunday.
May 15 2018Williams (5-2) tossed seven scoreless innings to pick up the win Tuesday against the White Sox. He allowed six hits and struck out six without issuing a walk.Tuesday's outing was Williams' second six-plus inning scoreless start of the season and his first since April 1. The righty breezed through the first four innings but allowed back-to-back singles to begin the fifth before retiring the next three hitters to escape the jam. He ended his day with a tidy four-pitch seventh inning, exiting with an excellent 2.72 ERA through his first nine starts this season. The 26-year-old has been a pleasant surprise in the early going, but his peripherals suggest that he's in store for a bit of negative regression at some point.
May 9 2018Williams didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 6-5 win over the White Sox, allowing four runs on seven hits and two walks over five innings while striking out three.For the second straight start, the right-hander gave up two homers, and Williams was in line for his third loss of the season before the Pirates rallied in the ninth inning. The 26-year-old still carries a solid 3.13 ERA, and he'll get a rare interleague rematch against the White Sox in his next start Tuesday back in Pittsburgh.
May 3 2018Williams (4-2) took the loss after allowing three runs on four hits and a walk across 5.2 innings Thursday against the Nationals. He struck out three.Williams allowed just two baserunners through the first five innings before running into trouble in the sixth. Facing the Nationals' lineup for the third time through, the 26-year-old served up a pair of homers to Trea Turner and Ryan Zimmerman before getting the hook with two outs. It marked just the second time Williams was unable to finish six innings and the first time he allowed three or more runs through seven starts this season. While he hasn't missed many bats this season (5.7 K/9), his ability to limit hard contact (0.7 HR/9) has resulted in a solid 2.63 ERA and 1.10 WHIP through 41 frames. He'll look to keep up his strong start to the season in his next outing, which is scheduled for Wednesday against the White Sox.
Apr 29 2018Williams (4-1) allowed two earned runs on four hits while walking two and striking out two across six innings to earn the win Saturday against the Cardinals.Williams gave up a lot of hard contact early in the start, but settled in to complete another strong outing. He has hardly been dominant -- he has just a 5.2 K-BB% -- but has limited hard contact against him to just 27.5 percent, among the best in the league. His current results won't last, but if he can continue to limit hard contact his skillset may align with pitcher-friendly PNC Park.
Apr 22 2018Williams tossed six innings of two-run ball in a no decision Sunday against the Phillies, allowing one hit with five walks and seven strikeouts.Williams struggled to find the strike zone at times, tying his season high in walks, but that was offset by his career-high-tying seven punchouts. Curiously enough, the only real damage against him was initiated by opposing pitcher Nick Pivetta, who had an RBI double and later scored on a sacrifice fly to tie the game in the fifth inning. Overall, Williams turned in his third straight quality start and still owns an impressive 2.15 ERA through 29.1 innings. He's next scheduled to face the Cardinals on Saturday.
Apr 18 2018Williams struck out four and walked three in Tuesday's loss to the Rockies, giving up two runs on four hits in six innings.Williams pitched well but was outdueled by Rockies' starter Chad Bettis, taking his first loss of the season on a quality start performance. The two runs Williams allowed were an RBI groundout by Carlos Gonzalez in the first, and an RBI single by Ryan McMahon in the fourth. In four starts, Williams is 3-1 with a 1.93 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and a 14:10 K:BB ratio. He'll head to Philadelphia for a weekend matchup with the Phillies.
Apr 12 2018Williams (3-0) threw six innings of one-run ball to earn the win Thursday against the Cubs. He allowed four hits, walked one and struck out five.Williams' third consecutive strong start has lowered his season ERA to a shiny 1.56 mark. His first two outings were against the Tigers and Reds, so Thursday's effort against the Cubs was his most impressive performance to date. Though his run prevention has been commendable, his peripherals suggest that he may be in line for some negative regression. Williams walked five batters in his start against the Tigers and allowed 10 hits in his next start against the Reds. The 25-year-old posted a solid yet uninspiring 4.07 ERA over 150.1 innings last season, so he may be worthy of a look in deeper leagues, though his pedestrian strikeout rate will ultimately cap his upside. He lines up to make his next start Tuesday against the Rockies.
Apr 6 2018Williams (2-0) picked up his second win of the season on Friday, giving up two earned runs on 10 hits, striking out four and walking one in Pittsburgh's 14-3 blowout win over the Reds.After not allowing a hit to the Tigers over six innings in his first start of the season, Williams allowed 10 to the Reds in his second go-around but managed to limit the damage and pick up the win as his offense exploded for 14 runs. He's sporting a sparkling 1.59 ERA through his first two starts of the season, but that should be taken with a grain of salt considering he put up a 4.07 mark in 150.1 innings last year and he has a 1.41 WHIP through his first 11.1 innings in 2018. He's a matchup-dependent streaming option for fantasy purposes for the time being.
Apr 1 2018Williams (1-0) pitched six scoreless innings without allowing a hit to earn the win against Detroit on Sunday. He issued five walks and stuck out only one batter.Williams recorded a respectable 3.96 ERA and 1.28 WHIP through 25 starts last season, so this was an encouraging showing to begin 2018. However, while he has the potential to provide serviceable ratios, Williams is unlikely to collect many strikeouts. Additionally, wins could be difficult to come by toeing the rubber for the Pirates. Still, PNC Park is a favorable pitching environment, so being selective with his matchups might be a good approach for the immediate future.
Mar 31 2018The Pirates' game against the Tigers on Saturday was postponed due to weather and will be made up during a doubleheader Sunday, pushing Williams' regular-season debut back a day, Rob Biertempfel of The Athletic reports.Williams will make his first start of the 2018 season during Game 1 of Sunday's doubleheader, while Chad Kuhl takes the mound for Game 2. During 31 appearances -- 25 starts -- for the Pirates last season, Williams logged a 4.07 ERA and 1.31 WHIP over 150.1 innings.
Mar 22 2018Williams allowed one earned run in 5.1 innings Wednesday against Minnesota. He struck out eight batters while throwing 97 pitches.The right-hander will likely start the second game of the season in Detroit, though the team hasn't made an official announcement. After struggling in his first start last year, Williams went on to compile a 3.65 ERA in his ensuing 24 starts (135.2 innings) -- that earned-run average dropped even further (3.09 ERA in 122.1 innings) excluding games against St. Louis. While he doesn't post great strikeout numbers (7.0 K/9) he presents fantasy owners with a serviceable option, especially at PNC Park.
Feb 22 2018Williams appears to be in line for a rotation spot to begin spring training, Adam Berry of MLB.com reports.The 25-year-old held his own during his first full season in the majors, sporting a 4.07 ERA and a 1.31 WHIP to go with a 0.8 HR/9. His strikeout numbers were less than stellar (7.0 K/9), but his 4.07 FIP suggests that what we saw from Williams last season is what we'll get. At the very least, he's worth a look as a streaming option when he's pitching at home since he produced a 3.45 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP in 88.2 frames at PNC Park last year.
Sep 26 2017Williams (7-9) allowed one run on three hits and three walks across six innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Orioles. He struck out six.Williams was extremely effective in this one, scattering three baserunners before allowing a solo home run to Chris Davis with two outs in the sixth inning. He has now gone at least five innings while allowing two runs or fewer in five of the last six starts to lower his ERA to a respectable 4.07. One of the club's less heralded young pitchers, Williams made strides this season toward become a solid arm in the middle of the rotation. He is not scheduled to appear again this year and will look to carry his growth over to the 2018 campaign.
Sep 19 2017Williams (6-9) allowed one run across five innings while taking a loss Tuesday against the Brewers, yielding three hits with two walks and six strikeouts.Williams was able to scatter baserunners effectively, but he was victimized for a solo home run by Domingo Santana in the fourth inning. Unfortunately, Chase Anderson delivered a gem on the other end, sinking Williams to his ninth loss. Still, he's gone at least five innings while allowing two earned runs or fewer in four of his last five starts ahead of his next turn Tuesday against the Orioles.
Sep 17 2017Williams will start Tuesday's game against the Brewers, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.Williams and Jameson Taillon were dropped from the rotation last week to make room for newcomers Steven Brault and Tyler Glasnow, but the former duo will rejoin the starting ranks and take the hill for the Pirates' first two games of the series against Milwaukee. Brault is still in line to start Wednesday's series finale, so it appears that Glasnow could move to the bullpen to accommodate the new arrivals, which would leave the Pirates with a six-man rotation this week. Though Williams struggled in his last outing Sept. 8, he's carried a 3.64 ERA since the All-Star break, which might be enough to keep his starting role relatively secure, especially with Chad Kuhl struggling of late and seemingly most vulnerable of losing his rotation spot should manger Clint Hurdle make further changes over the final few weeks of the season.
Sep 12 2017Williams will be skipped this weekend in Cincinnati, Rob Biertempfel of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.The Pirates will use Thursday's off day to skip Williams; Chad Kuhl, Ivan Nova and Gerrit Cole will start against the Reds (in that order). Williams gave up four runs on four hits and four walks over 4.2 innings in his last start and has dropped four of his last five decisions. It's uncertain when he may return to the rotation.
Sep 9 2017Williams (6-8) took the loss Friday against the Cardinals, giving up four runs on four hits and four walks over 4.2 innings while striking out five.He faced the minimum six batters through the first two innings, but the wheels started to come off after Greg Garcia led off the third with a double. Williams has been alternating dominant outings with shaky ones lately, but his 4.3 BB/9 since the beginning of August suggests the latter are more likely going forward. He'll next take the mound Wednesday in Milwaukee.
Sep 3 2017Williams (6-7) picked up the win against the Reds on Sunday, allowing eight hits and a walk over seven scoreless innings while striking out five.It's the third time in his last six starts that Williams has held the opposition scoreless, but Sunday's performance was also the first time since July 2 that he hasn't walked multiple batters. The right-hander's greatest strength remains his ability to keep the ball in the park -- he's allowed only five home runs in his last 15 starts and 87.1 innings -- but that will be put to the test Friday on the road against the Cardinals, the club responsible for three of those homers the last time he faced them.
Aug 28 2017Williams (5-7) took the loss Monday against the Cubs as he allowed two runs on six hits and three walks with four strikeouts and lasted just five innings.Williams was given a tough test with consecutive starts against the Dodgers and Cubs, and although he couldn't match his eight shutout innings against the Dodgers on Monday, Williams at least managed to hold Chicago's excellent lineup at bay for five innings. He has now given up just four home runs in nine outings since the All-Star break, three coming in one start August 18 against St. Louis. Williams owns a 4.37 ERA, and if he can keep that ball in the yard like he has been, sustaining or even improving on that level of performance is entirely possible.
Aug 24 2017Williams shut the Dodgers out over eight innings Wednesday, allowing seven hits and four walks while striking out five. He didn't factor into the decision in the eventual 10-inning win.The storyline of this game is dominated by opposing starter Rich Hill's effort -- perfect through eight, a no-no through nine, and then a leadoff homer in the 10th that sent the Pirates to the win column -- but Williams deserves plaudits for putting matching zeroes up on the scoreboard. It's not always pretty and it may not be sustainable, as his 28:17 K:BB over his last six starts will attest, but this was a strong bounce-back effort for Williams coming off a three-homer, eight-run disaster against St. Louis. The sinker-balling righty's next turn lines up for Monday at Wrigley Field; he's made four appearances against the Cubs this season, giving up eight earned runs in 13.2 innings (5.27 ERA).
Aug 18 2017Williams (5-6) allowed eight runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out three over three innings to take the loss Friday against the Cardinals.Williams was roughed up for three homers, as the Cardinals made quick work of him. He came into this game having allowed three or fewer earned runs in 10 of his last 11 starts, but this poor outing raised his ERA from 4.19 to 4.71. Aside from the occasional rough outing, he's been a reasonable fantasy option this year. He'll make his next start Wednesday against the Dodgers.
Aug 12 2017Williams (5-5) was charged with four runs (three earned) on four hits and four walks over six innings in a loss to the Blue Jays on Saturday. He struck out seven.On the heels of a seven-inning, one-hit gem earlier in the week against the Tigers, Williams turned in another quality start, but he hurt himself with the walks. The right-hander didn't get any help from his offense, and that has been a theme in recent starts, with the Pirates totaling eight runs in Williams' last four games. Williams lines up for a home start against the Cardinals his next time out.
Aug 7 2017Williams threw seven innings of shutout ball Monday against Detroit. He allowed just one hit and two walks while striking out five.He totaled a season-high 107 pitches, including 62 for strikes. His velocity was slightly down from his 92.6 mph average -- he hit the upper 80s on occasion -- but manager Clint Hurdle noted post-game how well the rookie mixed his pitches. Williams has crafted a 3.56 ERA in his last 91 innings. According to AT&T SportsNet, the righty's .521 opponent OPS the second time through the lineup is second-best among National League hurlers with a 100-batter minimum -- only the Dodgers' Clayton Kershaw (.502) is better.
Aug 3 2017Williams allowed two earned runs in 5.2 innings Wednesday against the Reds. He gave up six hits and two walks while striking out six.Since his season's first start in Los Angeles on May 8, Williams has compiled a 3.86 ERA and 1.24 WHIP in 15 starts covering 84 innings. He's struck out only 59 batters during that span, but he's overachieved in his role as the team's fifth starter. Williams has also put himself in good position to stay in the rotation for 2018.
Jul 26 2017Williams allowed just a single run on five hits and three walks over six innings against the Giants on Wednesday. He struck out just two and didn't factor into the decision.Williams has made a living out of keeping the ball on the ground, and this start was a prime example -- of the 18 outs he generated, 13 came via grounder. The sinker-balling righty doesn't generate many strikeouts (6.3 K/9), but he's a decent back-of-the-rotation option who can be streamed in the right matchups. He'll draw a home start against the Reds' mediocre offense on Tuesday.
Jul 22 2017Williams (4-4) was tagged for five runs on seven hits and two walks over 6.2 innings while striking out four in Friday's 13-5 win over the Rockies.The right-hander settled down after allowing three runs in the first inning and let his offense take control, as the Pirates only failed to cross the plate in the third and eighth frames. Williams only has five quality starts in 14 trips to the mound since joining the rotation and his 4.74 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 6.5 K/9 make him a generally risky fantasy play, although he'll be a solid streaming option in his next start Wednesday on the road in San Francisco.
Jul 16 2017Williams allowed two runs on 10 hits and two walks while striking out five batters through 5.2 innings during Sunday's win over St. Louis. He didn't factor into the decision.The 25-year-old righty has settled into a nice groove and allowed three runs or fewer in 11 of his past 12 starts. Williams owns a respectable 4.69 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 6.6 K/9 for the year, and his fantasy value is on the rise in deep leagues with his improved recent form. A tough road start at Coors Field against the Rockies is on deck for Williams, though.
Jul 7 2017Williams (3-4) allowed three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out three over 3.2 innings to take the loss Friday against the Cubs.Williams was solid through three innings before struggling his second time through the lineup, leading to his early exit. His rough outing represented the first time he's failed to post a quality start over his last four outings, but his 4.80 ERA makes him difficult to consistently trust in fantasy lineups. He'll make his next start at a time yet to be determined after the All-Star break.
Jul 2 2017Williams gave up two runs on three hits and one walk while striking out three in six innings against the Giants on Sunday.He now has three straight quality starts with an impressive 17:3 K:BB in 19 innings over that span. Regression is likely coming, but he has done enough to gain a fairly strong hold on a rotation spot going into the All-Star break. His next start will come Friday in Wrigley Field.
Jun 27 2017Williams allowed two runs on six hits with no walks in Tuesday's no-decision against the Rays. He struck out seven.Williams, who limited the baserunners quite effectively in this one, gave up an RBI groundout in the fourth and was scored upon again after the first two men reached as he tried to extend into the eighth. He was on the hook for a loss despite the quality start, but a late push from his offense bailed him out in that regard. After being battered for much of the early part of the season, Williams seems to be coming into his own at the big league level and has now tossed consecutive quality starts for the second time in 2017. He still holds a hefty 4.82 ERA, but an enticing matchup with the Giants awaits the in-form 25-year-old on Sunday.
Jun 22 2017Williams allowed three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out seven over six innings Wednesday but didn't factor into the decision in a 4-3 loss to the Brewers.The seven strikeouts were a career high for the 25-year-old, while the quality start was his third of the year. Williams' ability to keep the ball in the park has allowed him to post a 4.36 ERA, 1.18 WHIP and 0.5 HR/9 over his last six starts (33 innings), but his 6.8 K/9 over that stretch highlights his limited upside. He'll next take the mound Tuesday at home against the Rays.
Jun 16 2017Williams allowed three first innings runs during Friday's loss to the Cubs. He didn't factor into the decision and struck out three batters over five frames.Tyler Glasnow's recent demotion to the minors has paved the way for Williams to stick in the rotation. Williams owns a 5.16 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 5.9 K/9 for the year, and his 4.66 FIP isn't an encouraging mark, either. It's probably safe to ignore Williams outside of cavernous mixed and NL-only settings at this stage of the game. He projects to face the Brewers at Miller Park in his next start.
Jun 10 2017Williams gave up five runs on six hits (including two homers) over four innings in a no-decision against the Marlins on Saturday. He struck three batters and did not issue a walk.The offense rallied and the bullpen held steady to take Williams off the hook for the loss after a disappointing performance. His numbers don't look particularly good (5.13 ERA, 1.33 WHIP), but Williams did have back-to-back quality starts in his previous two outings, and with Tyler Glasnow demoted, it looks like Williams will continue on in a starting role.
Jun 5 2017Williams, who has compiled a 2.83 ERA in his last four starts (28.2 innings), is building a case to remain in the rotation following the return of fellow starter Jameson Taillon (testicular cancer) in the next week or so. "It's out of my hands," Williams told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I'm just glad that I still have an opportunity to pitch at the big league level. Whenever the ball's in my hand in whatever situation, I'm going to do my best and give the team the best of my ability that day to help the team win."One of Williams, Chad Kuhl or Tyler Glasnow will be removed from the rotation as soon as June 12 (the anticipated return date of Taillon), according to general manager Neal Huntington. After stumbling in his first start against the Dodgers (six earned runs in three innings), WIlliams has thrown well. Expect Kuhl or Glasnow to lose his spot in the rotation.
Jun 5 2017Williams (3-3) allowed a single run on seven hits and two walks while striking out three batters during Sunday's win over the Mets.The 25-year-old righty has allowed just two runs through 13 innings over his past two outings and is now stretched out enough to pitch deeper into games after beginning the season in the bullpen. Over his three starts, Williams has a 2.50 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 6.0 K/9. He's worth a look in deeper settings or as a potential streaming and daily contests option. Williams lines up to face the Marlins in his next start.
May 29 2017Williams allowed one run on four hits while walking none and striking out three over six innings for a no-decision in Monday's 4-3 win over Arizona.The 67-pitch outing was Williams' first quality start in his fifth start as a rotation fill-in, and it came against a potent offense. However, his 6.5 K/9 isn't all that appealing, and he's just a short-term rotation replacement until Pittsburgh gets back their injured starters. Williams lowered his ERA to 5.20 on the day, but he's merely a desperation streamer in the right matchups.
May 25 2017Williams went five innings against the Braves on Wednesday, allowing three runs on six hits while striking out six in a no-decision.That marks a new season high in whiffs for the rookie, but he still isn't giving fantasy owners many reasons to invest -- Williams doesn't pitch deep into games, and his lack of elite pedigree means there won't be a mad dash to add him off the wire. There may be some temporary utility here in NL-only formats, but that's more or less it.
May 19 2017Williams (2-3) allowed three runs on four hits and two walks across 5.2 innings to take the loss Friday against the Phillies.Williams entered the sixth inning with a 2-1 lead before allowing a pair of runs, leading to this third loss of the campaign. In his three starts since joining the rotation while Jameson Taillon (groin) landed on the disabled list, he's allowed 10 earned runs in 13.2 innings, and he'll likely be removed from the rotation once Taillon returns to action. He'll make his next start Wednesday