Josh Lowe Handles Shift Well

ST. PETERSBURG—Top 2016 draft pick Josh Lowe did well with the myriad adjustments required in his first pro season. He dealt with the rigors of playing every day and the heightened level of competition while splitting time at two Rookie-level affiliates.

When Lowe got to instructional league, the Rays threw an even bigger adjustment at him: a shift from third base to center field.

And he seems to have that handled as well.

“I was really open to it,” said Lowe, 19. “I knew before the draft it was a possibility. They told me on signing day that there was the potential of me going from third to the outfield. I just think that it’s going to help me along the way, especially if they’re thinking the same thing. And I can’t wait to get out there.”

Farm director Mitch Lukevics said the move wasn’t the result of Lowe not doing well in the infield. The move was based on the potential—especially at 6-foot-4, 190 pounds—to be really good in the outfield.

“He really profiles in center field,” Lukevics said. “He’s a (plus) runner with a great body and great athleticism. It takes the pressure off him at third base. He’s free, he can run, he can throw. He’s a rare cat for that size.”

Lowe, whom the Rays selected 13th overall out of Pope High in Marietta, Ga., played center exclusively during instructional league and was comfortable with his progress.

“I’d probably say tracking the ball is the biggest adjustment, because the hitters at this level are a lot different—they get more backspin on the ball and everything takes off,” Lowe said. “But with time, I’m making that adjustment and I’m doing pretty well at it.”

Overall, Lowe hit .249/.374/.405 with five homers in 54 games in his pro debut and hopes to make the jump to full-season ball.

“I’m really blessed to be in this organization, especially with the track record they have,” Lowe said. “I’m looking forward to the future. Hopefully we can bring some wins to this organization and bring a championship team back. That’s what I’m looking to do.”

COOL RAYS

• After signing outfielder Colby Rasmus to a major league deal, the Rays inked younger brother Cory, a righthander, to a minor league pact with an invitation to big league camp.

• In shifting Class A outfielder Zac Law to catcher, the Rays considered his skills and his toughness. “He has that right makeup . . . and he’s a really good athlete,” Lukevics said.

— Marc Topkin covers the Rays for the Tampa Bay Times