Rays Expected to Activate Carson Williams Following Jake Fraley Injury

The Tampa Bay Rays announced a series of roster moves on Sunday ahead of their Citrus Series finale against the Miami Marlins, including placing veteran outfielder Jake Fraley on the 10-day injured list with a hernia injury. The team will promote former top prospect shortstop Carson Williams in his place.

Fraley was scratched from Saturday’s lineup due to the issue. While the organization has not yet revealed the full severity of the injury, hernia recoveries often require extended time away from the field, meaning Fraley could be sidelined for at least six weeks.

As for Williams, the San Diego native played in seven games this season for the Rays before being optioned back to Triple-A Durham in early April. During his time with Tampa Bay, Williams struggled at the plate, hitting .130/.167.174 and striking out nine of his 24 plate appearances. 

With Fraley out, the Rays are expected to lean more heavily on Jonny DeLuca and Ryan Vilade for additional opportunities in the outfield rotation moving forward. At the same time, Williams will find time in a utility role and inside the infield.

The Rays are back in action on Sunday for the finale of the Citrus series at Tropicana Field. Drew Rasmussen (3-1, 3.16 ERA) will take the mound tomorrow for the Rays as the Marlins will go with Eury Perez (2-5, 4.94 ERA). First pitch is scheduled for 12:15 pm EDT.