Rays Prospect Watch: Why Carson Williams Could Be the Rays’ Next Homegrown Star

With a cannon arm, high-IQ instincts, and growing power at the plate, the Rays’ top shortstop prospect Carson Williams is closing in on his debut.

In an organization known for doing things differently — for patience, precision, and pristine player development — Carson Williams fits the mold almost too well. At just 21 years old, the Tampa Bay Rays’ top prospect already looks the part of a Major League shortstop. Now, the only question left is: when does he arrive?

The answer, like everything in Tampa, is about timing.

Rays MiLB Prospect Roundup: 4/26

– Joe Boyle (AAA) wasn’t as sharp in latest start but still generated swings & misses: 18 whiffs, 6 K, 2 BB, 2 HR, 57% Strike in 6 IP

– Carson Williams (AAA) hit his 2nd HR

– Tre’ Morgan (AAA) went 1-3 w/ BB

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pic.twitter.com/1clejyvM

— Rays Ranter (@RaysRanter) April 27, 2025

A Glove Built for the Big Leagues

From the moment he was drafted in the first round back in 2021, Williams’ defensive prowess stood out. Scouts have long marveled at his instincts, range, and a cannon for an arm. Many believe he could step into a big-league infield today and hold his own.

He’s been nothing short of brilliant at shortstop throughout the minors, and the metrics back it up. Whether it’s turning slick double plays or tracking down bloopers with fluid ease, he’s been a highlight reel in waiting.

But in Tampa Bay, even glove-first prospects are asked to wait. That’s in part due to Taylor Walls, the club’s current defensive standout who led all AL shortstops in defensive metrics last season. Walls, however, brings limited offense to the table — batting just .188 over his career.

And that’s where Williams has a chance to separate himself.

A Power Surge and a Patient Eye

Williams entered 2025 ranked as the No. 8 prospect in all of baseball, and the top-rated shortstop. That ranking was built not just on defense, but the belief that his bat could catch up — and perhaps even sur — expectations.

So far, it’s trending in that direction.

Williams batted .281 in big league spring training, then opened his Triple-A season by slashing .364 with an .864 OPS through his first three games. His most notable swing came on April 12th, when he launched a 421-foot home run with a 111.3 mph exit velocity, showcasing the raw power that has scouts and Rays execs dreaming of a future All-Star.

Carson Williams 🚀

421 feet
111.3 mph

MLB’s No. 8 prospect (@RaysBaseball No. 1) launches his first home run for the Triple-A @DurhamBulls. pic.twitter.com/FZ48Ci648K

— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) April 12, 2025

Over three full minor league seasons, Williams has averaged 21 homers, 27 steals, and 73 RBIs per year. But his profile isn’t without a flag: his strikeout totals, averaging over 150 Ks per season, remain a concern.

He’s cut down slightly this spring — nine strikeouts in 12 Grapefruit League games — but against MLB arms, making consistent will be the final test.

A Matter of Time

The Rays aren’t in a rush. That’s never been their style. But they also know what they have.

Williams just turned 21 and will hit 22 in June. He’s athletic enough to stick at shortstop but could transition to third base if needed. And with the Rays’ depth and flexibility, that kind of versatility is more asset than question mark.

If his bat continues trending upward in Durham — and if Tampa’s offense needs a spark — expect a midseason call-up. Not rushed, not forced. Just right.

Expect a glove that’s already golden, a bat that’s beginning to shine, and a player the Rays have carefully, patiently, and quietly been shaping into something special.