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Mechanical Adjustment Helped Gavin Williams Break Out in 2025
Cleveland Guardians right-hander Gavin Williams took another step last year, reaching personal bests across the board in ERA (3.06), strikeouts (173), innings (167 2/3), and starts (31). After the All-Star break, Williams had a 2.18 ERA over 12 starts, which tied him with Tarik Skubal for first among qualified American League starters. In the first few months of 2025, he threw less than six innings in eight of his 11 starts, logging a 4.27 ERA with 32 walks in 52 2/3 frames. According to MLB.com's Tim Stebbins, a subtle mechanical adjustment that Williams made on June 16 was the catalyst for his excellent finish. The 26-year-old raised the position of his hands from resting at the belt to his chest, to create a longer arm path so he could better locate his pitches. Williams also added a sinker last year, although he only threw it 6.6% of the time. The adjustment helped Williams throw more strikes, but he still led the majors with 83 walks. Going into 2026, Williams is an anchor in Cleveland's starting rotation and is a high-end No. 4 starting pitcher in fantasy with upside for more if he continues to lower his walk rate.
Source: MLB.com - Tim Stebbins
Source: MLB.com - Tim Stebbins
