Carson Williams: Rays 2024 Minor League Player Of The Year
Other Rays prospects had flashier numbers, such as Chandler Simpson’s 104 stolen bases or Tre’ Morgan’s .324 batting average.
But Double-A Montgomery shortstop Carson Williams had a strong season, too, and has advantages around the margins. Namely, his position value, production against better competition and stronger prospect pedigree.
He was also the youngest minor league hitter to go 20-20 this season.
All told, Williams batted .256/.353/.469 with 20 home runs and 33 stolen bases in 115 games in the pitcher-friendly Southern League.
Williams improved in areas that were targeted, such as swing decisions and strike-zone judgement, and others on his own, such as stealing bases.
“His relentless work ethic and unwavering desire to improve each day have paid off,” Rays senior director of player development Blake Butera said.
“Playing an elite-level shortstop and achieving over an .820 OPS in the Southern League at such a young age is incredible, though not surprising. This is just the beginning for Carson, and we’re excited to see him continue to achieve great things.”
After a solid showing and educational experience in big league spring camp, Williams suited up for Montgomery all season, his fourth in pro ball after being drafted 28th overall in 2021. This allowed the Rays’ core, which also included Simpson, Morgan, Xavier Isaac, Brayden Taylor and Yoniel Curet, to develop together.
The Rays couldn’t be happier with how he handled it.
“Carson really had an outstanding season in all facets of the game,” Rays assistant GM Kevin Ibach said.
“Offensively, he has the ability to impact the baseball to all fields. It’s been fun to watch him develop consistency to his approach as he has climbed the ladder. And once he gets on base, he’s a real threat. He’s not just as a basestealer, (he also has) instincts and ability to take the extra base.
“Defensively, it’s about as steady of a shortstop as you’ll see in minor league baseball. The agility and hands really stand out, and he can finish plays given the elite arm strength. His ability to slow the game down on the dirt is impressive. Just a special talent at a premium position.’’
COOL RAYS
— Lefthander Mason Montgomery’s August conversion at Triple-A Durham from struggling starter to reliever not only resulted in increased velocity. It altered and accelerated his career path. He was called up to join the Rays bullpen in September and impressed.
— With Opening Day catcher Rene Pinto injured and inconsistent much of the season after being demoted to Triple-A, and Alex Jackson posting a record-low batting average (.122) in the majors, George Mason product Logan Driscoll got a September callup and a chance to show if he is ready for big league duty in 2025.
