Davidson, Martin stand out in Rays' first spring training game

The final score was not in the Rays' favor today as they dropped their first spring training game against the Braves by a score of 5-1. The offense never quite got going despite a 9-hit effort and Tampa Bay pitchers gave up a few home runs that turned the tide. However, in every spring game, we must look at the positive performances as the roster decisions are narrowed down by the end of March. Two non-roster invitees were able to make their presence known today.

Logan Davidson launches Rays' first homer of the spring in debut

The Rays signed free agent first baseman Logan Davidson to a minor league contract in December as they sought after a solid depth option for their infield. Jonathan Aranda has clearly locked up first base after his All Star 2025 campaign, but depth is always important for a team to make a postseason run.

Davidson proved today that he is capable of making some noise offensively. The 28-year-old slugger belted the first pitch he saw this spring over the right field wall to give the Rays their first and only run. The next at-bat was also successful as he was rewarded a free pass after four consecutive pitches out of the zone. The Rays should be excited about the potential of this 6'3 athlete. Although the numbers don't display success in his young career (.167 AVG), Davidson certainly has the making for a solid backup option.

Trevor Martin tosses perfect inning and displays "top of the line" velocity

The Rays' 2022 third round pick, Trevor Martin, was one of six Rays' pitchers to come out of their outing without any runs, but his pitches seemed to stand out among the rest. The 25-year-old hurler was sitting around 97 with his firm fastball and hitters were absolutely baffled. Of course, this should be taken with a grain of salt since it is the first game of the spring and hitters are still getting their timing down, but it's a good sign, nonetheless. Martin received his promotion to Triple-A Durham last season after going 5-1 with a 3.21 ERA in 53.1 innings with the Biscuits. Could we see a call-up from the hard-throwing righty in the near future?