Bees Sign Pitcher Williams, Outfielder Rivers
March 29, 2016 - Atlantic League (AtL)
New Britain Bees News Release
(New Britain, Conn.) - New Britain team officials today announced that the club has signed RHP Ali Williams and outfielder Kevin Rivers for the 2016 Inaugural season.
Williams becomes the first pitcher to sign with the Bees in team history. The 6' 2", 185 lbs. right-handed pitcher spent last season with the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (AA - Kansas City Royals) and the Arizona Fall League's Peoria Javelinas. A native of Sumter, South Carolina, Williams owns a 16-14 record in 118 games (14 starts) over five minor league seasons after being drafted in the 14th round of the 2011 MLB Amateur Draft by the Royals. Williams is also the cousin of Baseball Hall of Famer Larry Doby.
"Ali Williams brings experience both in the rotation and the bullpen, and his signing is a great step forward for our pitching staff," said Bees' Manager Stan Cliburn.
A graduate of Bristol Eastern High School and Franklin Pierce University, the 6-foot-2 inch, 204 lbs. Rivers spent last season with the Lancaster Barnstormers, slugging 15 home runs and driving in 48 runs. Prior to his Atlantic League experience, Rivers spent six seasons in the Seattle Mariners' organization, reaching as high as the AA level with the Jackson Generals in 2014. Rivers owns a .272 lifetime MiLB batting average with 56 home runs and 280 RBIs, along with 267 runs scored.
"Rivers brings power and experience to our outfield, and we're excited to have him in the lineup come April 21st," said. Cliburn.
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