Pittsburgh Pirates: Newcomers Impress, More Takeaways From Series Split in Milwaukee

Alika Williams impressing

Infielder Alika Williams was selected 37th overall by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2020 MLB Draft. On June 2nd, the Rays traded him to the Pirates in exchange for reliever Robert Stephenson. Then on July 25th, Williams was promoted to the majors for the first time and he's done nothing but impress since the Pirates promoted him.

William started the first three games of the series. In those three games he went 4-for-8 with three walks and a double. In 28 plate appearances since being promoted to the majors Williams owns a .333/.429/.417 slash line with a 138 wRC+, 14.3% walk rate, and a strikeout rate of just 17.9%.

Coming through the minors Williams was known for his defense. That has been on display with him playing a smooth, and much needed settling type of defense at shortstop which has been something the Pirates have been lacking all season.

Williams may never be an every day player in the majors, but his performance with the Pirates thus far certainly makes it seem that him carving out a role as a utility player is very possible. The final eight weeks of the season will present an opportunity for Williams to put a down payment on an Opening Day roster spot for 2024. Thus far, Williams has been making that down payment.