Long Beach Armada Sign Former Diamondbacks Prospect, Marland Williams

Published on April 11, 2008 under Golden Baseball League (GBL)
Long Beach Armada News Release


(Long Beach, CA.) The Long Beach Armada of the Golden Baseball League (GBL) announced today that they have agreed to terms with Marland Williams for the upcoming 2008 season. Williams has been a force on the base paths in the minors since 2002. "Marland will bring excitement to Blair Field for the Armada," said Long Beach Armada General Manager Steven Bash. "The way he approaches and plays the game with his gifted speed and glove will easily make him a fan favorite and will make the 2008 Armada squad top contenders in the league."

Williams, 26, was a thirty-sixth round draft pick by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2001 amateur draft out of North Florida Community College in Madison, Florida. In the Diamondbacks' minor league system, Williams finished in top 3 in stolen bases, at least 35 per season, from 2002 to 2006 and led the league in triples in 2002 (8) and 2004 (10). His best overall year was in 2004 for the El Paso Diablos in the AA Texas League, where he batted .257 with 21 doubles and 10 triples, both career highs, 48 stolen bases and 10 outfield assists. Former scouts and coaches constantly raved his base running and ball tracking talents.

"Marland's speed on defense and on the base paths will win us games," said Long Beach Armada Manager Steve Yeager. "He will solidify our leadoff spot and our outfield." A 5'9" right-hander hitter whose speed garnered him the nickname 'Smoke,' Williams was a former high school running back from Gainesville, Florida. Williams will sure to ignite the offense at the leadoff spot for the Armada's upcoming 2008 Golden Baseball League season.

"I appreciate the opportunity the Armada has giving me to showcase my skills and play for Coach Yeager," commented Marland Williams. "My future goal is to make my way to the big leagues, but I definitely want to bring a championship to Long Beach."

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