Trevor Williams finalized a two-year deal with the Washington Nationals on Saturday and the rebuilding club will receive a right-handed pitcher with experience as a starter and reliever.
Williams, who turns 31 in April, became a free agent after pitching with the New York Mets last season, going 3-5 with a 3.21 ERA and one save in 30 starts: nine starts and 21 out from the bullpen. .
On Nov. 25, the day after Thanksgiving, Williams posted on Twitter: “FREE AGENT BLACK FRIDAY SALE! JUST FOR TODAY! 2×1: Buy a Trevor Williams, right handed pitcher and get Trevor Williams, outfielder! (deal ends at midnight)”.
Williams made his major league debut in 2016 and pitched for the Pirates, Cubs and Mets in seven seasons, with a 4.27 ERA and a 38-44 record.
Washington needs some help on the mound, especially since the rotation has been without injured Stephen Strasburg. Young pitchers Josiah Gray, 24; Cadè Cavalli, 24; and McKenzie Gore, 23, are considered forward-thinking pieces. The only starter who could return to the team is Patrick Corbin, who was a key part of the 2019 World Series champion team but went 6-19 with a 6.31 ERA last season.
The Nationals finished last in their division with a 55-107 record — the worst mark in the league — and have been rebuilding for years after winning the franchise’s first title. Their off-season was quiet compared to NL East rivals such as the Mets and Phillies.
Williams’ deal came a week and a half after Washington signed infielder Jeimer Candelario to a one-year deal and outfielder Stone Garrett.
