Analyzing Rays' haul of prospects sent to Mets in Freddy Peralta trade

The Tampa Bay Rays finally did it. They actually bought in a very big way at the trade deadline by acquiring right-handed starter Freddy Peralta from the New York Mets. This is an uncharacteristic move for a team that is typically cautious and likes to guard its prospects, but it shows that Tampa Bay is serious about trying to fend off the New York Yankees in the American League East.

This move immediately bolsters the team’s rotation. Peralta has struggled a bit this season to the tune of a 4.99 ERA in 22 starts, but maybe getting the stink of the Mets off him will lead to better results. A change of scenery can do wonders.

What did the Rays have to give up to get Peralta, though? They gave up No. 15 prospect outfielder Aidan Smith, No. 26 prospect right-handed pitcher Gary Gill Hill, and No. 27 prospect second baseman Émilien Pitre. Let’s dive into these players and see what the Rays are getting rid of.

Mets' price for Freddy Peralta shouldn't hurt Rays too bad

Aidan Smith

Smith is 22 years old and he’s known more for his speed and defense than he is his bat. That’s reflected in the numbers as he hit .209/.281/.391 in the minors this season with 10 home runs and 40 runs batted in.

His offensive numbers have always been a bit underwhelming so his departure shouldn't be an issue. If the Rays haven’t figured out how to get the most out of him at this point then maybe the Mets will have better luck.

Gary Gill Hill

Everyone loves a prospect who has a name that rhymes. Gill Hill has a 4.49 ERA in 20 starts in the minors this season. He’s not a strikeout pitcher as he only has 87 in 108 1/3 innings pitched, but he’s known for pounding the zone which is what a team wants to see from a young arm.

But stuff is not overpowering, so he’s more likely to be a No. 4 or No. 5 starter in a rotation someday (or maybe a long reliever) rather than an ace. Not a bad deal since the Rays are getting a guy in Peralta who has the potential to be an ace at his best.

Émilien Pitre

Pitre is a solid player and he’s having his best year in the minors right now. He’s hitting .308/.438/.447 with five home runs and 46 RBI. He’s also walked 70 times while only striking out 40 times, which is insanely impressive.

Still, contact-first second basemen are not exactly a rare commodity. It’s easy to see him turning into a solid utility guy in New York, but not a star.

In all, this trade looks pretty good from Tampa Bay’s perspective. They gave up three prospects, but none of them really jump off the page and they’re showing the clubhouse that they believe enough in this group of players to get a proven starter.

We will see how the rest of the year plays out, but odds are the Rays will feel pretty good about this trade no matter what.

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