Rangers, Jerome Williams making progress on contract

The Texas Rangers are "making progress" on a contract with right-handed pitcher Jerome Williams, according to a baseball source. The deal could be consummated within the next couple of days, and would likely be a one-year contract.

Williams' agents at Full Circle Sports Management declined comment because the negotiations are ongoing.

According to the source, talks between the two sides intensified once starter Derek Holland injured his knee in a freak accident at his home. Holland is expected to miss a significant portion of the season, causing the Rangers to be aggressive in their search to replace him in the rotation.

Williams, 32, was non-tendered by the Angels in December after posting a 9-10 record and 4.57 ERA in 37 games (25 starts) last season. He is looking to make 30+ starts next season, and has drawn significant interest from many teams looking for starting pitchers on the free agent market. While the Rangers have emerged as the clear favorite to sign Williams, the Orioles and Mets have also been linked to him this offseason.