2026 DRaysBay Community Prospect List: Vote for No. 16

Previous Winner Slater de Brun, OF18 | L/L | 5'10' | 187

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The 2026 DRaysBay Community Prospect List continues with the vote for No. 16. Slater de Brun, a 2025 draft pick acquired in the Shane Baz trade, was the previous winner. The article provides details on de Brun's profile and skills, as well as information on other top prospects in the Rays' system, including outfielder Victor Mesa Jr., who was recently acquired from the Marlins.

Why it matters

The Rays' farm system is consistently ranked among the best in baseball, and this annual prospect list provides valuable insight into the organization's top young talent. As the Rays look to maintain their competitive window, the development of these prospects will be crucial to their long-term success.

The details

The article profiles several Rays prospects, including Jackson Baumeister, a right-handed pitcher who had a shoulder injury derail his 2025 season but finished strong; Homer Bush Jr., a center fielder acquired in the Jason Adam trade who has Rays-grade defense and plus-speed; and Nathan Flewelling, a catcher drafted in 2024 who could develop 50-60 grade power and defense. The article also covers outfielder Brailer Guerrero, a $3.7 million 2023 signee who has struggled with injuries, and right-hander Trevor Harrison, who entered the season as Baseball America's top pitcher in the system.

  • Slater de Brun was drafted 37th overall in 2025 through a pick traded by the Rays.
  • Victor Mesa Jr. was traded to the Rays in February 2026.

The players

Slater de Brun

An outfielder drafted 37th overall in 2025 through a pick traded by the Rays, who was essentially re-acquired in the Shane Baz trade. He's expected to develop more as a hitter than a power threat, with plus speed that elevates his baserunning and defense in center field.

Victor Mesa Jr.

A Cuban power bat who made his MLB debut with the Marlins last year and was traded to the Rays in February 2026. He profiles as a fourth outfielder but has an option remaining, so the organization may send him down for regular playing time and one last chance for something more in development.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Rays' farm system continues to produce high-level talent, with prospects like Slater de Brun and Victor Mesa Jr. offering intriguing upside. As the organization looks to maintain its competitive window, the development of these young players will be crucial to their long-term success.