Cincinnati Reds: Mason Williams making case to stay in the Major Leagues

Outfielder Mason Williams hasn’t been with the Cincinnati Reds long, but he’s already making his case for staying at the Major League level.

Mason Williams has hit the ground running since arriving in Cincinnati. Called up from Triple-A Louisville on July 26th, Williams has earned a start in three consecutive games for the Cincinnati Reds. He’s rewarded Jim Riggleman‘s faith with production at the plate and solid defense in the outfield.

Williams was promoted after the Reds were dealt a blow this past week when Jesse Winker was put on the disabled list. Winker will be out of action for the remainder of the season after aggravating a shoulder injury that will require surgery.

Phillip Ervin, who’d already been promoted from Triple-A Louisville after the injury to Scott Schebler, had been filling in from time to time in right field since his promotion on July 20th. However, since Williams’ arrival last Thursday, he’s played in four games including starting the last three games versus the Philadelphia Phillies.

In his three starts, Williams has gone 4-for-11 (.363) with a home run, three RBIs, and a stolen base. Williams has played mainly in right field for the Reds, but today got the start today in center field. Williams’ home run, the second of his career, was launched to right field during the fourth inning of the Reds’ 6-4 victory on Friday night.

Though Schebler is on a rehab assignment with the Louisville Bats, Williams isn’t just filling in for an injured player. He’s batting in the No. 5 hole, ahead of fellow outfielders Ervin, Billy Hamilton, and Adam Duvall. With Winker shelved for the season and Schebler still unable to throw a ball, Williams gives the Reds another left-handed option at the plate.

The question becomes, what will happen with Williams when Schebler returns. The most likely scenario is that the Reds move Jesse Winker to the 60-day DL in order to open up a spot on the 40-man roster. The Reds may then designate Ervin for assignment and keep Williams in Cincinnati.

There’s no telling when Schebler may return. As of now, he’s just taking swings as the designated hitter in Louisville. He’s unlikely to return to the Reds until he’s able to throw as well. Until he does look for Williams to continue to get his fair share of chances to stick with the Reds.