Rays' Top Prospect Carson Williams Earns Starting Shortstop Role

The 23-year-old impresses in spring training, ready to contribute after Taylor Walls' injury

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:06am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a baseball shortstop's fielding and batting actions, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant navy blue, powder blue, and gold colors, conceptually representing the Rays' strategic move to promote their top prospect Carson Williams to the starting lineup.The Rays' top prospect Carson Williams steps up to the plate, his dynamic movements captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that reflects the team's high hopes for his impact at shortstop.Today in Tampa

The Tampa Bay Rays have named their top prospect, 23-year-old Carson Williams, as the starting shortstop for the upcoming season. This decision comes after Taylor Walls' unfortunate injury, leaving a void in the team's lineup. Williams has had a strong spring training, hitting .281 with a home run and a stolen base in 32 at-bats, proving his worth and readiness to take on this crucial role for the Rays.

Why it matters

Williams, the 28th overall pick in the 2021 draft, has been a rising star in the Rays' organization. Despite struggling with a .172 batting average and .219 on-base percentage last season, his potential was evident, and he showcased his power in Triple-A Durham, hitting 23 homers and 55 RBIs in 111 games. The Rays are confident in Williams' abilities, both offensively and defensively, as he is an above-average runner and defender at shortstop with a plus arm and raw power.

The details

Manager Kevin Cash has expressed confidence in Williams' abilities, stating that he's had a 'really good spring' and that the team has 'seen the improvements that he's made on both sides of the ball.' Williams embraces the challenge, saying, 'Of course, under the circumstances, it's a bummer... But I'm gonna take this opportunity and I'm gonna go try to help the ballclub win some games.' This mindset showcases his determination and eagerness to contribute to the team's success.

  • Carson Williams was the 28th overall pick in the 2021 MLB draft.
  • Last season, Williams struggled with a .172 batting average and .219 on-base percentage in the majors.
  • In Triple-A Durham in 2022, Williams hit 23 home runs and drove in 55 RBIs in 111 games.

The players

Carson Williams

The Tampa Bay Rays' top prospect, a 23-year-old shortstop who has impressed in spring training and is now set to be the team's starting shortstop for the upcoming season.

Taylor Walls

The Tampa Bay Rays' former starting shortstop, who has suffered an injury, creating an opportunity for Carson Williams to step up and take over the position.

Kevin Cash

The manager of the Tampa Bay Rays, who has expressed confidence in Carson Williams' abilities and is excited for him to be the team's starting shortstop on Opening Day.

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What they’re saying

“Carson's had a really good spring. We've seen the improvements that he's made on both sides of the ball, and we're excited for him to be in there Opening Day for us.”

— Kevin Cash, Manager, Tampa Bay Rays

“Of course, under the circumstances, it's a bummer... But I'm gonna take this opportunity and I'm gonna go try to help the ballclub win some games.”

— Carson Williams

What’s next

The Rays will continue to monitor Williams' progress and performance as he takes over the starting shortstop role. The team will also need to address the injury to starting pitcher Ryan Pepiot, who has been placed on the injured list with right hip inflammation.

The takeaway

The Rays' decision to promote their top prospect, Carson Williams, to the starting shortstop position showcases the team's confidence in his abilities and their willingness to give young talent an opportunity to contribute. This move addresses an immediate need and provides a chance for Williams to showcase his potential, which could have a significant impact on the team's success in the upcoming season.