Chances are, Trevor Williams is not a name that one will hear in a fantasy baseball draft this year. However, as a flier in the last round, he could prove to be worthwhile.
Despite not having the pedigree or the reputation of the other Pittsburgh Pirates starters, Williams actually led the rotation with his 4.07 ERA, and was third with a 1.310 WHiP. Ignoring his two blowups against the Dodgers and Cardinals, where he allowed a combined 14 earned runs and 17 baserunners in just six innings, Williams becomes a far more enticing pitcher.
Even with those horrific performances, he put together a solid 2017 campaign. In addition to his 4.07 ERA and 1.310 WHiP, Williams struck out 117 batters in his 150 innings, allowing just 52 walks. He also did a great job of keeping the ball on the ground (see a trend here?) with 1.28 ground ball outs for every out in the air. By keeping the ball on the ground, only 7.8% of the hits against him went for extra bases, and he gave up only 14 homers.
There is potential for even more with Williams going forward. At just 26 years old, he could develop that excellent command he showed in the minors, where he walked just 2.5 batters per nine innings. Improved command could also help his strikeout numbers, especially when paired with his fastball that can reach the upper 90s.
Trevor Williams may not get a second look in fantasy baseball drafts this year. But as a flier in the last round, he could prove invaluable.