The Tampa Bay Rays are giving their top young talent a shot. On Thursday, the team promoted shortstop Carson Williams, their highest-rated prospect, ahead of the series opener against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Rays promote top prospect Carson Williams as Kim lands on injured list
The move comes as veteran Ha-Seong Kim was placed on the injured list with recurring back problems. Manager Kevin Cash said the timing opened the door for Williams, who has been climbing the organizational ladder steadily.
Rays turn to Carson Williams after Ha-Seong Kim injury
“I’m excited to see him,” Cash said. “Carson had a strong season last year, battled through some struggles early this year, and really turned it around with Durham.”
Williams, 21, was a first-round pick in 2021 and has been recognized for his defensive skills since the start of his pro career. He won a Minor League Gold Glove at High-A in 2022 and has continued to show developing power. At Triple-A Durham this season, he posted a .213 average with 23 home runs, 55 RBIs, 22 steals, and a .765 OPS over 111 games.
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The call-up is part of a season where the Rays have struggled to stay healthy and consistent. Forced to play home games at the Yankees’ spring training facility after hurricane damage to Tropicana Field, Tampa Bay entered Thursday at 61-66, fourth in the AL East and 12½ games behind the Toronto Blue Jays.
Kim, meanwhile, is expected to be sidelined for at least the minimum 10 days, though the team is optimistic his absence won’t stretch much longer. To clear space for Williams on the 40-man roster, outfielder Stuart Fairchild was moved to the 60-day injured list.
Williams wasn’t in Thursday’s starting lineup but is expected to make his major league debut later in the series.
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