Williams has emerged as a Swiss army knife for the Mets, with a 3.56 ERA in 17 games and eight starts across 55 innings in 2022. Taillon has been a rotation staple for the juggernaut Yankees this season, posting a 3.86 ERA in 100 innings over 18 starts. Sure enough, the spotlight has brought out the best in both pitchers. "He is not a guy where I thought New York was going to be a problem." "Trevor is very sure of who he is," Taillon said. It's okay to experience the city, not be afraid to go out and live to the fullest.'" "He was like, 'This is what New York is all about. "It was awesome to have Jameson there and have a familiar face to at least get your bearings," Williams said. Taillon was traded to the Yankees prior to the 2021 season, lending himself a half season of expertise of playing in the scrutiny of the New York market to share with his former teammate. From 2016 through 2019, Williams and Taillon became friends during their time together in the Pirates organization. More eyes, more scrutiny, brighter spotlights.Īnd besides: "Getting traded in the middle of the season is always a s-storm," Williams said.Īfter hearing the news, one of the first people Williams reached out to wasn't a new teammate, but a crosstown rival - current Yankee Jameson Taillon.
Williams had previously played in the Marlins, Pirates and Cubs organizations, but he knew playing in a market as big as New York represented a different challenge. NEW YORK - When the Chicago Cubs traded Trevor Williams to the New York Mets last July, he wasn't sure what to expect.