Phillies want ‘Wild Thing’ Williams to shut up

Williams imparts some words of wisdom to Cliff Lee in happier times, circa 2010.

Mitch Williams didn’t hold back as a Phillies closer. The same could be said for the Wild Thing as a MLB analyst.

When WIP morning show host Angelo Cataldi asked Williams last Friday if the Phillies needed a new pitching coach, Williams was candid.

“I think they need to,” Williams said. “I honestly do because as a pitching coach, you can sit and look at that film and if you can’t pick that up, there’s a problem.”

Williams is referring to Roy Halladay’s issues. (Halladay was rocked for nine runs in 2 1/3 innings Sunday). Doc, who rarely comments about anything but pitching, is incensed by Williams.

“It does upset me,” Halladay said. “It upsets me that guys outside of our group that don’t understand what’s going on here make comments like that. It couldn’t be farther from the truth.”

Rich Dubee did reveal that he stopped Williams from talking to pitchers in spring training. Williams told Metro in February that he intended to speak with some Phils on the down low. He particularly wanted to connect with promising minor leaguer Jake Diekman.

Charlie Manuel has been Williams’ ally but that’s it as far as those in Philadelphia management, according to the former manager of the Atlantic City Surf. Williams won’t be dealing with Phillies pitchers, but he’ll continue to deliver provocative insights.

When asked about the Phillies’ chances this season, Williams said it’s in the hands of the aces.

“It’s really about the big three,” Williams said. “Cole Hamels, Cliff Lee and Halladay each need to win 15 games for the Phillies to be successful.”

The big three have come up small so far and they’re a big reason the Phillies trail in the NL East. Halladay, Hamels and Lee are a combined 5-10 after 32 games.

It’s difficult to argue with Williams’ assessment. The Phillies’ 2013 fate rests upon the shoulders of the three highest-paid hurlers on the staff.