The Rays are sitting on top of the AL East, but the calendar is about to hand them a chance to add a fresh piece. Major League Baseball rosters grow from 26 to 28 on September 1, and Tampa Bay could use that window to give its lineup a spark.
One name that has surfaced is Theo Gillen, the organization’s No. 2 prospect on MLB Pipeline. FanSided’s Jake Elman pointed to Gillen as a possible call-up who could give the Rays “much-needed jolt” as they try to lock down home-field advantage in October.
“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 is still a ways from the majors. He has not reached Triple-A and has played only 49 games at Double-A Montgomery. The Rays took him 18th overall in 2024, and his numbers this year have been loud enough to keep him in the conversation.
“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.”
Even with that production, a promotion would still qualify as a long shot for Tampa Bay. Gillen is not on the 40-man roster, which makes the path tougher.
The more likely September move, according to the report, is that the Rays bring up infielder Carson Williams along with one pitcher from the minors.
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