Theo Gillen’s jump this season wasn’t just about getting back on the field. Yes, the Rays center fielder was healthier in 2026 than he was during an injury-hit 2025, and that mattered. But the numbers only tell part of the story.
What really stood out was the work behind them.
“The overall body of work certainly speaks for itself,” Rays assistant GM Kevin Ibach said. “The damage and speed numbers stand out among his peer group, but I wouldn’t want the consistency of his work behind the scenes to go unnoticed.
“From the time he reported to spring training, we saw real attention to detail in his daily preparation. And that obviously translated to the game setting. He was able to stay on the field more than he did in 2025 and the numbers followed.”
They followed in a big way. Gillen hit .315/.419/.546 with 22 home runs and 44 stolen bases across 116 games, split almost evenly between High-A Bowling Green and Double-A Montgomery.
The Rays drafted Gillen 18th overall in 2024 out of Westlake High in Austin, Texas, as a shortstop before moving him to the outfield right away. Now 21, after turning that age in mid September, he showed why the organization has been so high on him.
Last year, Gillen appeared in 73 games and came into this season determined to answer with something better. He did exactly that, posting a 1.038 OPS in 57 games, earning a Futures Game selection and a June 23 promotion to Double-A.
Ibach said Gillen also made noticeable gains on the defensive side.
“Theo really dedicated time to a throwing program that increased his arm strength from last year,” Ibach said. “It was an area we asked him to focus on. The overall defensive improvements can get lost in his offensive numbers, but he’s really developed into a well-rounded player.’
“Looking ahead, we feel confident that Theo will continue to make adjustments as he faces more advanced pitching at the upper levels. His aptitude is above-average and he is always looking for that small advantage in the box or in the outfield.’’
Gillen’s season also earned him South Atlantic League MVP honors based on his 57-game run with Bowling Green. When the Tigers inquired about him in Tarik Skubal trade proposals, the Rays made it clear they weren’t going to entertain that discussion.
Elsewhere in the system, Bowling Green right-hander Jacob Kisting, who was traded to the Marlins in the Liam Hicks deal, was named SAL pitcher of the year. Charleston shortstop Cooper Flemming picked up Carolina League MVP honors, and right-hander Aidan Cremarosa was named the league’s pitcher of the year.
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