2025 Arizona Fall League All-Star among spring training non-roster invitees for Rays

It's that time of year. When the lesser-known minor league players get an opportunity to gain a spotlight during spring training. This "spotlight" comes with a ton of pressure and expectations, however. The athletes who loosen up and play freely have the chance to turn some heads and potentially form a spot for themselves on the roster. So, without further ado, let's take a closer look at the Rays non-roster invitees for this upcoming spring training.

Pitchers: Luis Guerrero, Brody Hopkins, Ty Johnson, Trevor Martin, TJ Nichols, Austin Vernon, Andrew Wantz, Kodi Whitley, Logan Workman, Cam Booser, John Rooney, Chase Solesky, Jake Woodford

There are a few notable pitchers joining spring training as non-roster invitees this year that could impact the big-league club in the near future. First of all, the Rays top pitching prospect Brody Hopkins is on pace to be a reputable starting pitcher in the major leagues. The Winthrop University product has excelled in all levels of the minors thus far, highlighted by his career 2.88 ERA.

Andrew Wantz is another interesting addition to camp. The Rays acquired this right-handed reliever prior to last season, but he was sidelined for the duration of the season with a right elbow injury. Wantz has pitched four solid seasons out of the Angels bullpen, posting a 5-1 record and a 3.88 ERA in that span. Due to the uncertainty of some of the Rays relievers, keep an eye out for his performance in the spring.

Catchers: Blake Sabol, Logan Driscoll, Tatem Levins, Kenny Piper

This will be an interesting competition to keep tabs on as the Rays haven't solidified their starting catcher yet. The only one with any significant MLB service time is former Giants backstop Blake Sabol. Sabol actually appeared in over 100 games for the Giants in 2023 and performed pretty well. His .235 AVG and 23 extra-base hits would bode well in a Rays roster at the moment, but he hasn't come close to those numbers since then. Can the Rays revive the 28-year-old catcher and will he compete for a back-up role?

Infielders: Logan Davidson, Raynel Delgado, Gregory Barrios, Xavier Isaac, Cooper Kinney, Tre' Morgan, Brayden Taylor

This group is loaded with talent. From the unbelievable power of Xavier Isaac to the jaw-dropping defense of Tre' Morgan, we wouldn't be shocked if a few of these guys force their way onto the roster. One underrated prospect to look out for is versatile Cooper Kinney. The 2021 first round pick has hit well since he arrived on the professional scene, producing 117 extra-base hits in only four seasons.

Outfielders: Edward Olivares

The sole outfielder on the list of non-roster invitees is former Royals center fielder Edward Olivares. The Rays clearly see that their 40-man roster has no shortage of talented outfielders after adding the likes of Cedric Mullins, Jake Fraley, and Jacob Melton. Olivares may not be on track to crack this loaded roster, but he will certainly be considered if a disaster unfolds. In five MLB seasons, the Venezuelan product has a .254 AVG with 29 home runs and 96 RBIs. Therefore, there's some things to like when it comes to experience that could give Olivares a slight edge.