TYLER, TEXAS - UT Tyler Baseball alumni Justin Williams is officially taking the next step in his career, signing a free agent contract with the Billings Mustangs to begin his journey in professional baseball.

The Mustangs, based in Billings, Montana, compete in the Pioneer League—one of four MLB Partner Leagues in the American independent baseball system. The league features 12 teams across the Northern California and Rocky Mountain regions and plays a split-season schedule at venues like Dehler Park, home of the Mustangs.

Williams, an outfielder from Jackson, Mississippi, transferred from Southeastern Louisiana to complete his college career at UT Tyler. He played a pivotal role in leading the Patriots to their first-ever NCAA Division II World Series appearance this season. In 58 games, he hit .390 with 11 doubles, 3 triples, 15 home runs, and 72 RBIs. His 15 home runs and 72 RBIs set new single-season program records, earning him NCBWA All-American honors.

Since joining Billings, Williams has already seen action in seven games. In 25 plate appearances, he's tallied seven hits, five runs, two RBIs, and reached base at a .360 clip—an encouraging start to his professional career.