Rays acquire promising rookie infielder in 3-team trade, DFA left-handed reliever

No, the Rays weren't involved in the headliner of this 3-team deal as Brendan Donovan's move to the Mariners stole the show. However, this acquisition for the Rays was sneaky and could easily be a big part of the 2026 season.

Rays acquire rookie infielder Ben Williamson in 3-team deal with the Mariners and Cardinals

The Cardinals got the bulk of the load in this trade as the Rays sent them talented minor league outfielder Colton Ledbetter and the Mariners gave away a couple top prospects of their own to claim 2025 All-Star Brendan Donovan. Seattle also let a talented, young infielder go to make room for Donovan's services.

Ben Williamson completed his rookie season last year and performed prett well for a 2023 draft pick. The 6'0 infielder primarily plays third base as he appeared at that position in 85 contests a season ago, but the Rays may test his versatility as Junior Caminero holds down the fort at the hot corner.

The 25-year-old Williamson's bat is what caught the Rays' eyes. He has hit everywhere he's been, particularly in the minors where the Virginia native a .291/.377/.415 slash line with 64 extra-base hits in three seasons. Doubles are his favorite form of offense as he hit 48 in the Seattle farm system and 13 at the big-league level.

Williamson had two separate MLB stints last season as he bounced between Triple-A Tacoma and T-Mobile Park. In just under 300 plate appearances, the former second round pick hit a respectable .254 with 32 RBIs and the Rays believe he's just scratching the surface with his offensive potential.

Rays DFA LHP Ken Waldichuk to make room for Williamson on the 40-man roster

Unfortunately, when additions are made, subtractions must also take place (at least most of the time). The subtraction in this case was recently acquired left-handed reliever Ken Waldichuk. This was an interesting decision and begs the question: Will the Rays pursue another left-handed relief pitcher at this point in the offseason? We sure hope so as Garrett Cleavinger and Joe Rock are currently the only two lefties out of the bullpen. Regardless, a move needed to be made, and we wish Waldichuk all the best as seeks another contract.