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The Philadelphia Phillies have designated Nick Williams for assignment, it was announced today. Williams was originally a member of the Texas Rangers’ organization, having been drafted in 2nd round of the 2012 draft by the Rangers, and was sent to the Phillies in July, 2015, as part of the Cole Hamels deal.
Williams, who turns 27 in September, has always been seen as having transcendent bat-to-ball skills, but paired that with terrible strike zone judgment and a very poor approach. Williams made it to the majors in 2017 and had some success, posting an 811 OPS in 343 plate appearances, albeit with problematic defensive stats in the outfield. He has slashed .151/.196/.245 this year, and has a career .254/.313/.420 slash line and a -1.8 bWAR.
The Phillies can trade, waive or release Williams now. While there may be some who would like the Rangers to bring him in, a lefty-swinging outfielder with questionable defensive skills and no options remaining isn’t a great fit on this roster.