PBR Illinois Player of the Week: SS Donivan Williams

May 24, 2017

Drew Locascio
Illinois Scouting Director

Richards senior infielder Donivan Williams has been named this week’s PBR Illinois Player of the Week thanks to outstanding performance at the plate last week for the Bulldogs.

Williams, an Illinois State commit, currently ranked No. 8 in the Illinois’ 2017, went 7-for-11, good for a .636 batting average on the week. To go along with the lofty batting average, Williams hit three home runs, a double, a triple, nine RBI and scored eight runs. At one point last week, Williams homered in three straight games. Also, two of his three long balls on the week were by the three-run variety.

Williams also helped out on the mound in a win against Sandburg on Wednesday. In his one inning of work he struck out two.

On the season, Williams is hitting .509, with 10 homeruns, 17 doubles, four triples, 48 RBI and 46 runs scored.

Williams participated in this winter’s Super 60 and has been drawing some interest from scouts this spring.

Below is his video and scouting report from the event:

Scouting Report: Super 60 2017 - Illinois State recruit. 6-foot, 193-pound frame, athletic build with room for continued physical development. Turned in arguably the most impressive infield performance at the Super 60. Listed as a third baseman, but has the athleticism, natural instincts, actions and hands to play anywhere on the infield. Moves with fluidity and rhythm, advanced hands and overall glovework, highly athletic arm, showcasing the ability to throw from multiple angles on the move with accuracy and authority. Was clocked at 90 mph across the infield without much effort. Plays exceptionally on the move, quick glove-to-hand transfer, overall head-turning defensive performance. Offensively, right-handed hitter, clearly has been working on his swing since last look. Hits from a slightly open setup, rhythm in stride/load, generates bat speed through the zone, showed ability to work the middle of the field, inconsistent path at times. Registered 91 mph exit velocity. Also ran a 6.99 60 (NOTE: He clearly ran faster the first 60 attempt, but the laser timer malfunctioned).

For his efforts, Smith has been named the PBR Player of the Week for the week of May 7 - May 13.

Stay tuned for our Weekly Diamond Notes, this Friday, as there were players who narrowly missed out on the Player of the Week award.