Rays could have 'much-needed jolt' with MLB promotion for No. 2 prospect

4 weeks ago 15

The Tampa Bay Rays are in first place in the AL East, leading the New York Yankees by 4.5 games.

Major League Baseball rosters expand from 26 to 28 on September 1. Who could the Rays promote to the Majors?

FanSided's Jake Elman argues that the Rays should consider the organization's No. 2 prospect on MLB Pipeline.

"The speedy Chandler Simpson gets a lot of love, but the Rays’ overall outfield has been average at best. [Theo] Gillen, who turns 21 on Sept. 12, could inject a much-needed jolt to a Tampa Bay team attempting to secure home-field advantage in October," Elman wrote.

Gillen may not be ready for the Majors just yet. He hasn't reached Triple-A and has played just 49 games at Double-A Montgomery.

He was selected 18th overall by the Rays in 2024.

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"Gillen hit .319 with 21 home runs, 84 RBI, 42 stolen bases, and a .986 OPS between High-A Bowling Green and Double-A Montgomery," Elman added. "He's still raw, but he could bring a much-needed jolt of power and speed to this outfield."

Tampa Bay's front office may consider a Gillen promotion as a long shot. Not to mention, he's not on the 40-man roster.

It's more likely that the Rays recall infielder Carson Williams and one pitcher from the minors.