Gerald

Williams

Williams, who was removed from Florida’s roster last week, joined the Isotopes on Sunday.

The Mets are looking for outfield depth after trades and injuries have thinned out their ranks a bit.

Williams was designated for assignment five days ago.

We thought Chris Woodward would be Carlos Beltran’s short-term replacement, but Williams has been Willie Randolph’s choice. Until yesterday, Williams had a total of nine at-bats in more than a month and a half with the Mets.

Not a big step, but this will do more to help Florida’s offense than any of Jeff Torborg’s lineup changes. Chad Allen figures to be called up to replace Williams as the team’s fifth outfielder.

Williams was batting only .230/.280/.417 for Triple-A Norfolk, but that’s still better than what Ron Calloway has done and Eric Valent is 5-for-31 since being sent down. Mets fans should just hope he’s never needed to make a start in the outfield.

It appears that the Marlins will go with a bench of Mike Redmond, Wil Cordero, Damion Easley, Abraham Nunez, Mike Mordecai and Lenny Harris. Either Harris or Mordecai would be cut if the team goes with 12 pitchers.

Williams went 4-for-31 in two stints with the Marlins last season. He should be a longshot for a spot as a fifth outfielder, but if he wins a job, he will receive If Williams makes the major league roster, he a $325,000 contract with the chance to earn $30,000 in performance bonuses: $10,000 each for 55, 70 and 90 games.

Williams is batting .048, but he’s still oozing veteran presence. At least, we think that’s what it is.