A first-round pick of the Astros in 1990, the South Carolinian was rushed to the majors but could never quite find himself in the big leagues. Tried as both a starter and reliever from 1991-1994, Williams had a 17-16 record with a 4.72 ERA and three saves. He was traded to the Padres in the mega-deal along with Ken Caminiti and Steve Finley.

Williams pitched for the Padres, Tigers and Orioles before returning to Houston as a free agent for the 1999 season where he went 2-1 in 50 games. He then pitched for the Cubs and Indians before calling it quits. As an Astro, he compiled a 19-17 record with a 4.66 ERA. Overall, he had a 26-38 record with a 5.37 ERA, one shutout and six saves in nine seasons.