Alika Williams

Williams was drafted 37th overall by the Rays in the 2020 draft, primarily on the basis of his athleticism and slick fielding. He progressed fairly quickly through their minor league system but became dispensable due to the team's impressive number of middle infield prospects and depth in the majors. As a result, he was flipped to Pittsburgh in exchange for Robert Stephenson in early June and eventually made his big-league debut in late July. His sample in the majors (112 PA) followed his scouting report closely, as he struggled to make consistent contact (31.3 K%) and hit for little power (.050 ISO) while also not so much as attempting a stolen base. Some skills did carry over, most important of which was his glove, as he managed three defensive runs saved across 301 innings at shortstop. Oneil Cruz will return healthy in 2024, which means the position is blocked in terms of a starting role. However, Williams could stick on the roster as a utility infielder thanks to his ability to also play second base. Read Past Outlooks