Veteran Williams Returns for Fifth Season in Royal City
GUELPH - The Guelph Royals Baseball Club is excited to announce the re-signing of outfielder JD Williams for the 2026 season.
Williams, 29, returns for his fifth season with the Royals after debuting with the team in 2022.
In his first five seasons with the team, the former Cincinnati Reds farmhand has a lifetime line of .312-.408-.479 in 138 games and was selected to the IBL All-Team in 2024.
Williams is coming off an outstanding 2025 postseason, where he batted .391 with seven stolen bases in just six games.
Royals assistant general manager Ryan Eakin said Williams is a massive part of the Royals.
"I truly believe we win the championship last year if JD doesn't get hurt in game three against Welland. He was our best player up until that point and was playing the best baseball he has ever played as a Royal. I truly think he unlocked something in the playoffs last year and expect it to carry over. He is fired up for this season and is willing to do whatever it takes to win."