New Rays prospect additions fitting right into the organizational mold
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Thirteen members of the Rays’ Top 30 prospect list weren’t in the organization at this time last year. Two arrived in the 2024 Draft, one was a 2025 international signee and a whopping 10 have come over in trades since last March. Normally with that level
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Thirteen members of the Rays’ Top 30 prospect list weren’t in the organization at this time last year. Two arrived in the 2024 Draft, one was a 2025 international signee and a whopping 10 have come over in trades since last March. Normally with that level of turnover, you’d think the group would need to use nametags in their first spring together.
Except since the end of last season, Tampa Bay has worked at developing the cohesiveness of its farm system, now arguably the deepest in baseball -- starting with a fall camp after the season, then with another camp for top prospects in January and now full Spring Training.
“It doesn't feel like they're super-new anymore,” senior director of player development Blake Butera said. “If anything, we’re excited to see them play in our uniform against different uniforms by this point.”
If you look at the types of players the Rays acquired, certain key themes emerge.
There are the toolsy center fielders, like Theo Gillen (2024 first round) and Aidan Smith (Randy Arozarena trade). There are pitchers with fastballs featuring plenty of carry, like Brody Hopkins (Arozarena), Jackson Baumeister (Zach Eflin) and Ty Johnson (Isaac Paredes). There are the elite defenders up the middle, like Homer Bush Jr. (Jason Adam) and Gregory Barrios (Aaron Civale).
“I think what we do really well is our scouting and player developments are so close in terms of how often we talk,” Butera said. “We’re always going back and forth. ‘Hey, what do you see with this guy? Is this someone who we could help?’ There's a lot of collaboration between departments here to make sure that what our scouts see matches up with what our PD group sees matches up with what our front office sees, and vice versa.”
📩 SUBSCRIBE TO THE BASEBALL TRAVELER NEWSLETTER
Going back to last year’s High-A Bowling Green and Double-A Montgomery teams -- where much of the Rays’ farm system was concentrated after the Trade Deadline -- there has been a process in place to turn those new faces from Rays types into actual Rays prospects, and the organization is pleased by the early returns of that process.
Smith, in particular, earned high marks with the offseason regimen he presented to his new organization -- from baseball activities to strength workouts to nutrition -- as a follow-up to a first full season that featured 11 homers, 41 steals and an .874 OPS in 97 games at Single-A. Hopkins is about to get into his first Major League game of the spring on Friday, thus missing out on the Spring Breakout game the night before, with many intrigued to see where his fastball-slider combo stands.
“You have to think, their worlds just got turned upside down,” Butera said. “They thought they were Baltimore Orioles and were going to play in the Major Leagues with them. Then all of a sudden, they get flipped to us. We don't want to overreact to their results the last month of the season they were with us. We’ve been paying more attention to them this offseason going into 2025 and already we're very happy with both of them.”
The Rays’ additions haven’t touched their Top 100 core just yet -- top four prospects Carson Williams, Xavier Isaac, Brayden Taylor and Tre’ Morgan are all homegrown talents. But building depth behind and around that foundation is just Tampa Bay getting back to its roots.
“They don't see it as competition because of who we are as a Major League team and as an organization,” Butera said. “We move guys around, and at the end of the day, we want to get our best nine players in the lineup, regardless of where that is. They're pulling for each other. We all want to do this together and it's a cool environment.”
First base logjam: Xavier Isaac, Tre’ Morgan, Will Simpson
Last year’s Spring Training Report focused on the Rays’ depth at first base, and if anything that’s only gotten more convoluted in the 12 months since. Isaac and Morgan combined forces at both Double-A and in the Arizona Fall League with both seeing time in the outfield in the latter to get their respective plus tools (Morgan’s hit, Isaac’s power) into the lineup.
Never ones to shy away from adding a talent they believe can help, the Rays also brought in first baseman Simpson from the A’s this offseason as part of the return for left-handers Jeffrey Springs and Jacob Lopez. The 2023 15th-rounder reached Double-A for 18 games late last summer and finished with 18 homers across 127 contests in his first full season, including those from his time at High-A. The Washington product has excited Tampa Bay coaches and coordinators with his extraordinary bat speed in early workouts, and he could provide a nice right-handed complement to lefties Morgan and Isaac.
“What he's able to do in the cages we haven't seen many people be able to do that just in terms of bat speed and exit velo,” Butera said. “I think we're all really excited to see him get in the games and get going.”
A possible solution would be to push Morgan to Triple-A Durham, considering his glovework at the cold corner is Major League-caliber already and his bat-to-ball skills could translate with an aggressive push. That would leave Isaac (who had serious contact issues in the Southern League) and Simpson in Montgomery, but that’s still up in the air, Butera noted. He added Simpson could see time at third base or move part time to the grass like the two others as the “good problems” continue.
“I think the three of those guys,” he said, “just with the ability to push out there, it gives us some more flexibility to get them in the lineup every day.”
Something new: Homer Bush Jr.
The Rays, of course, have a lightning-quick center fielder already in 100-stolen-base man Chandler Simpson and brought in another in Bush, who swiped 57 bags across two High-A teams in 2024. The latter lacks Simpson’s elite contact ability, but he’s shown a little more propensity for power, having hit six homers while slugging .363 last year.
With a full offseason under his new organization’s guidance, Bush has impressed Rays officials with some adjustments he’s made in the box to translate his premium athleticism into even more power in 2025, and the results have been there with a couple of homers in live batting practice sessions already.
“It’s about creating a little bit more separation,” Butera said. “He has a leg kick now and a little more hand movement, just getting his body in a better position to impact the ball. … He’s an explosive player. We know it’s in there. We just need to tap into it.”
2024 Draft sleeper: Nathan Flewelling
Gillen and Émilien Pitre were the only 2024 Draft picks to crack the Rays’ Top 30, but another one lurks just outside. Alberta native Flewelling secured his place on the radar with a strong showing at the MLB Draft Combine, and as a left-handed-hitting catcher with decent bat speed, he checked several boxes Tampa Bay likes in its backstop prospects before joining the organization in the third round.
Flewelling also only turned 18 in November, so he’ll be given plenty of time and space to develop. But his temperament in his first Spring Training is already catching attention from all corners.
“He went to our Major League game the other day,” Butera said, “and [Kevin] Cash was saying it felt like he had been up there for a few years.”
Sam Dykstra is a reporter for MiLB.com. Follow and interact with him on Twitter, @SamDykstraMiLB.
The best deal in Reno Aces history is here! Aces fans can enjoy Aceball all season long at Greater Nevada Field with the club’s Aceball All Access Pass.
RENO, Nev. – The best deal in Reno Aces history is here! Aces fans can enjoy Aceball all season long at Greater Nevada Field with the club’s Aceball All Access Pass, announced by the team on Monday. Aceball All Access Pass will give fans access to all home games (excluding
Standout Starter Yilber Diaz Set to Begin Season in Reno
The 2025 Opening Day roster is starting to take shape. The Diamondbacks optioned electric righty Yilber Diaz, promising starter Cristian Mena, and slugger Tim Tawa to Reno on Monday. Diaz’s return in particular is a significant development for the early outlook of the club. Diaz is one of the best
Reno Aces Announce Promotional Schedule for April 2025
RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces announced the club's April promotional schedule today for all 18 home games during the 2025 season's opening month today. Individual Game tickets are currently on sale HERE and at Reno Aces Fan Fest this Saturday from 11am - 2pm at Greater Nevada Field. Special
Reno Aces 2025 Roster Preview
The Reno Aces rode a resurgent bullpen, a stellar starting rotation, and a dynamic lineup to 44 second half wins and a league championship appearance in 2024. Reno has won 252 games since 2022, trailing only Oklahoma City (253) in the PCL. Keith Law at The Athletic recently ranked Arizona’s
Reno Aces Foundation’s Inaugural Grant Class of 12 Local Charities Receives Over $55,000 to Benefit Northern Nevada Communities
RENO, Nev. – Following a successful first season for the Reno Aces Foundation, the Reno Aces have announced the donation of over $55,000 to the inaugural grant class of 12 Northern Nevada charities on Tuesday. Following a grant process that saw over 50 applicants, the Reno Aces Foundation board of
FREE Reno Aces 2025 Fan Fest at Greater Nevada Field Set for March 8th
RENO, Nev. – With the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Spring Training underway and the 2025 Reno Aces regular season right around the corner, Reno Aces Fan Fest presented by News 4 NBC, Fox 11, and Nevada Sports Net, the club is excited to announce on Tuesday. Set for Saturday, March 8th. The
Chris Ellis on his Unexpected Call to Reno: "I Wondered If He Butt-dialed Me or Something"
RENO, Nev. -- Chris Ellis was preparing to grub some pasta in his Talking Stick hotel room in Scottsdale when his phone buzzed. The effervescent 31-year-old from Alabama knew the Diamondbacks were interested in his services, but it hadn’t yet clicked why his former battery mate Blake Lalli called. He
Greater Nevada Field to Host Job Fairs for Upcoming Reno Aces Season on January 25th and February 6th
WHAT: The Reno Aces are hiring! And will be hosting in-person job fairs for positions in multiple departments. WHO: Local residents with enthusiasm and want to be a part of the Reno Aces season. WHEN: Saturday, January 25th, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM PST and Thursday, February 6th,
Aces’ Manager Blake Lalli Gets the Call to the Show, Set to Become the Miami Marlins Third-Base Coach in 2025
RENO, Nev. – Blake Lalli's tenure as manager of the Reno Aces has come to an end after successfully leading the team to a Pacific Coast League postseason berth last year. The Miami Marlins announced on Friday that Lalli will serve as their third-base coach for the 2025 season. During
Jeff Gardner Named Reno Aces Seventh Manager in Franchise History as 2025 Coaching Staff is Announced
RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will have a new skipper in the dugout at Greater Nevada Field for the 2025 season. Jeff Gardner was named the club's seventh manager in franchise history, as announced by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday. Gardner replaces Blake Lalli, who managed the Aces for
Austin Pope Reflects on his New Year's Miracle, 2024 Resurgence
It was well after 2 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, and Aces reliever Austin Pope was ready to call it a night. Just before his buddy Jack headed home, Austin gave him a bear hug goodbye. “Something in my side popped,” Pope said, “and it sounded like a gunshot.” Months
Aces All-Time Hits Leader, Ildemaro Vargas, Resigns with the Diamondbacks for the 2025 Season
RENO, Nev. -- A familiar smiling face has a chance to return to Greater Nevada Field in 2025, with the announcement of the signing of infielder Ildemaro Vargas by the Arizona Diamondbacks to a minor league deal, with an invitation to spring training on December 17. The Caripito, Venezuela, native
Raftery Returns to Reno as the Aces' New Chief Revenue Officer
RENO, Nev. – After three years working on the East Coast, Doug Raftery is returning to the Biggest Little City as the Reno Aces' new Chief Revenue Officer, as announced by the club on Tuesday. Raftery rejoins the Aces organization after serving as Executive Business Officer for the USL Championship
Tim Tawa Embraces Diamondbacks’ Belief in His Future
Reno, Nev. – Tim Tawa's choice to play baseball has him one call from the majors. Long before he emerged as an intriguing super utility, Swiss army knife prospect on the diamond, the former West Linn quarterback treated Oregonians to 55 touchdowns and one interception in his record-setting senior season.
Lalli, and girlfriend Aleah Hartung, a two-time kidney donation recipient, will be honored on the 2025 Donate Life float.
RENO, Nev. – The Reno Aces will ring in 2025 on the national stage. Donor Network West has selected Manager Blake Lalli and his girlfriend Aleah Hartung to participate in the 136th Rose Parade®, which will be held Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in Pasadena, California. The announcement and celebration were
Simon’s Generosity Continues to Fuel Reno Aces Annual Toy Donation with JAKKS Pacific to Benefit Northern Nevada Charities
RENO, Nev. – With the holiday season spreading throughout Northern Nevada, the Reno Aces have been spreading joy to local charities with thousands of toys during its annual toy donation in partnership with JAKKS Pacific throughout the holiday season. This year, the Aces have partnered with the following seven local
Reno Aces Kickoff 2025 Single-Game Tickets on Cyber Monday
RENO, Nev. – With the 2025 Reno Aces Home Opener only a few months away, the club has announced that Single-Game Tickets will be available for purchase beginning on Cyber Monday, December 2nd, at 10:00 a.m. PT. Following a 2024 campaign, where the club made the playoffs for the second
English Continues to Leave His Mark as a Fan Favorite at Greater Nevada Field
Reno, Nev. – Tristin English was awarded the title of Aces Fan Favorite in 2024, a recognition that reflects his impressive performance on the field and his comforting interactions with fans. The corner infielder and outfielder had a productive year, finishing with a solid slash line of .263/.326/.424 with 18
Almora’s Leadership Provided the Aces with a Clubhouse Captain in 2024
Reno, Nev. – Albert Almora was honored as the Aces Clubhouse Captain following a standout 2024 campaign, where he played a pivotal role in guiding his team to the Pacific Coast League Playoffs. As a veteran presence, Almora became an invaluable mentor to several young players, including Adrian Del Castillo,
Brigman's Roller Coaster Year Ends in Batting Title
Reno, Nev. – On September 18, 2024, Reno Aces manager Blake Lalli, with a champagne bottle in his hand, addressed the room full of his players and coaching staff. In typical managerial fashion, Lalli recalled how proud he was of everyone involved in the clinching of a playoff spot before
Resilience and Consistency were Staples in Castellanos' Stellar Season on the Mound
Reno, Nev. – Following a remarkable season on the mound, Humberto Castellanos was honored with the title of Reno Aces Pitcher of the Year, a testament to his outstanding performance and determination throughout the 2024 campaign. The right-hander wrapped up the season with an impressive 9-1 record and a 3.81
Del Castillo’s Mark in Reno Made for a Most Valuable Season
Reno, Nev. – Adrian Del Castillo's 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the prestigious title of Pacific Coast League MVP. The Arizona Diamondbacks #14 overall prospect dazzled at the plate, finishing the season with an impressive slash line of .312/.399/.603 with a remarkable 36 doubles, 26 home
Reno Aces Foundation Opens Inaugural Grant Application Window on October 28th
RENO, Nev.–Following a successful first season, the Reno Aces Foundation has announced its inaugural grant application opportunity to give back and benefit the Northern Nevada region. The grant window will open on Monday, October 28st, at 10:00 am and close on Friday, November 29th, at 11:59 pm. Local organizations must
Resilience and Growth in Aces Pitching Staff Highlight 2024’s Second-Half Success
Reno, Nev. – The Reno Aces' pitching staff, a testament to resilience, displayed remarkable growth throughout the 2024 season, ultimately securing a spot in the Pacific Coast League playoffs. Despite a challenging start with a 6.27 ERA in the first half, the Aces defied the odds and turned their fortunes
Reno’s Offensive Thunder Leads the Aces to a Playoff Run in 2024
Reno, Nev. – The Reno Aces were an offensive powerhouse during the 2024 season, establishing themselves as the most formidable offense in the Pacific Coast League and earning their ticket into the PCL playoffs. The Aces led the PCL with a .286 batting average and 1,490 hits while recording just