Sports Out West West Coast sports news, scores & analysis — with a national perspective. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim avoided arbitration with pitcher Jerome Williams on Tuesday, as reported by Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times.
It is reported that the agreed deal is worth $2 million for the 2013 season.
The right-hander, 31, will join an already strong Angels’ bullpen that includes Scott Downs, last year’s closer Ernesto Frieri, and newly acquired Ryan Madson. With Williams’ addition, the Angels guaranteed themselves another season where the bullpen is a plus — an Angels’ trend.
Last season, Williams compiled a 6-8 record with a 4.58 ERA in 32 games (15 starts). He had 98 Ks and 35 BBs in 137 2/3 innings in his long relief and spot-start role. For the 2013 season, Williams is expected to reprise his role as spot-starter, in case of injury, and long reliever for the Angels.
Los Angeles finished the 2012 season with an 89-73 record, narrowly missing a postseason bid while finishing in third place in the AL West. Angels’ hurlers ranked seventh in the American League in ERA with a 4.02 mark.
