Jerome Williams had been slated to reach free agency following the conclusion of the World Series, but he and the Philadelphia Phillies have reached an agreement on a one year contract extension. Williams will earn $2.5 million for the 2015 season, according to a release by the team.
The deal also contains a number of incentive clauses, according to MLB Daily Dish’s Chris Cotillo, that could push the total value to $4 million.
Williams was well-traveled during the 2014 season. He initially signed a deal with the Houston Astros just prior to Spring Training, eventually earning a spot in the Houston bullpen. Williams struggled in 26 appearances, pitching to a 6.04 ERA and 1.573 WHIP in 47.2 IP. Houston would release Williams in early July and he’d land with the Texas Rangers just a few days later. Williams made a pair of starts for Texas, allowing 11 runs in 10 innings of work with a hugely concerning 16.2 H/9.
That Balls Outta Here
In early August the Phillies claimed him off of waivers. Williams was a different pitcher suddenly. He made nine starts down the stretch for Philadelphia, going 4-2 with a 2.83 ERA and 1.134 WHIP. He was consistent and effective.
It’s still too early to tell what direction the Phillies plan to go with regards to their starting rotation next season. Williams has experience both as a starter and as a long man, so that versatility could certainly work in his favor as the team looks to complete the best 25-man roster that they can coming out of Spring Training. No matter how he’s utilized, the contractual commitment is hardly one that will bind the team’s hands.
Williams, for his career, has pitched to a 4.40 ERA and 1.356 WHIP in 891.1 IP. He’s made 192 appearances, including 128 starts, with a 48-54 overall record while spending time with the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, Washington Nationals, Los Angeles Angels, Astros, Rangers, and Phillies.