Phillies Prospect Nick Williams Finally Showing True Potential

Nick Williams is one of the Phillies prized prospects, but he’s just now getting into the swing of things with his new club

Nick Williams has a large target on his back that has not faded since the Phillies acquired him from the Rangers in exchange for one of the best pitchers in franchise history.

Nothing came easy for Williams in his first full season not just in a new organization but at the Triple-A level. Facing much more advanced pitching the plus-.300 hitter had the worst offensive season in his professional career.

Mix a .258 batting average with a lack of hustle and multiple benchings and Phillies fans are ready to call the kid the next Dominic Brown.

A quiet offseason combined with a new swing, courtesy of hitting coach Matt Stairs, spelled new life for the 23-year-old outfielder.

That new life has resulted in Williams hitting .308 with four walks and the opportunity to flash the leather.

William’s relationship with Stairs, who’s just six years removed from his professional career, looks to be the key to his resurgence. A new swing combined with a mature hitting approach gives Williams the opportunity to make the most of his talents.

Look at Williams swing last year in the Futures Game compared to Spring Training nearly a year later. Williams’ old swing worried me from day one considering how large and almost looping it was.

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Michael Saunders and Howie Kendrick were acquired to keep the team afloat, provide leadership, and ultimately be shipped off at the trade deadline for more young talent. If Williams can continue to hit with his new approach to the game, a major league job could be his by July.