The Rays called up their #8 prospect, OF Justin Williams, before last night’s game against the Marlins.
Just when it seems like the Rays are getting healthier and ready to make a serious push for the final AL wild card – Kevin Kiermaier (foot) and Matt Duffy (ankle) are day to day with different ailments. Neither seem serious enough to be put on the DL. So there’s the good news.
However, with Kiermaier taking it easy, the Rays needed some outfield help. Before Saturday’s loss to the Miami Marlins, they called up another prized prospect. Williams, who turns 23 next month, was acquired in the 2014 trade that sent RHP Jeremy Hellickson to the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Another MLB debut
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— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) July 22, 2018
Williams made his debut in the seventh, pinch-hitting for SS Adeiny Hechavarria, who left the game with oblique soreness. In his only at-bat of the game, he grounded into a double play ending the inning. He would, however, stay in and play right field the rest of the ballgame.
Through 87 games at AAA Durham this season, Williams is hitting .267/.323/.392 with 8 home runs, 45 RBI, and 17 doubles. He’s a career .301 hitter through six minor league seasons.
The Rays optioned LHP Coby Milner to Durham to make room on the roster for Williams.
