3 under-the-radar players to watch for the Rays in spring training

Spring training is filled with opportunity and the chance for some young players to prove their worth to their club's front office. However, there will be more than 80 players featured for the Rays in spring training this year, so the competition will be fierce and strenuous.

Of the many non-roster invitees, there are a few that stand out with some special qualities that could help them advance through the depth chart. Whether its due to their top-notch velocity, power potential, or slick fielding, these three Rays minor leaguers will certainly be entertaining to watch this spring.

Bob Seymour

Drafted by the Rays in the 13th round of the 2021 draft, Seymour has displayed a consistent bat with impressive power during his four minor league seasons. In 2024, the 26-year old first baseman was promoted to Triple-A Durham, but played the majority of the season in Double-A.

Between both clubs, the left-handed slugger slashed .281/.351/.523 with 28 home runs and 95 RBIs. Those stats are almost unheard of in the short minor league campaign. Therefore, this underrated power threat could be a sight to see in Port Charlotte.

Gregory Barrios

The next underrated prospect we're going to highlight is 20-year old middle infielder Gregory Barrios. The Venezuelan shortstop was acquired by the Rays in a trade that sent former Rays starter Aaron Civale to the Milwaukee Brewers. The most intriguing characteristic of this young prospect's game is his amazing contact ability. In 406 at-bats last season, the 6'0 infielder struck out only 53 times which gave him a miniscule 13% K rate.

On the defensive side of the ball, Barrios was scouted as a 70-grade shortstop with agile feet and a strong arm. His scouting report mentioned that he "moves like water" on the infield, describing his effortless range at one of the most demanding positions.

Above all, this Single-A prospect is still very young and inexperienced. His first spring training with the Rays will be an interesting test for the youngster as he looks to climb through the Tampa Bay system.

Cole Wilcox

Cole Wilcox is another fascinating non-roster invite for the Rays this spring. Injuries have kept him from making his MLB debut thus far, but the University of Georgia alumni possesses a prominent repertoire. He relies on his mid-90s fastball and exceptional slider to attack opposing hitters. As he's now back to full health and headed into his first career spring training appearance, the 25-year old will be on a mission to prove he belongs on the biggest stage.