Rays complete trade for Marlins' rookie to add to crowded outfield

This was an interesting move by the Rays for multiple reasons. While the clear need for the roster is an everyday catcher, the front office strikes a deal for a left-handed outfielder. Jake Fraley, Cedric Mullins, Chandler Simpson, Jacob Melton, and even Richie Palacios all fit that description. So, why add to the crowded mix? The answer is quite simple and was mentioned by Rays' President of Baseball Operations, Erik Neander. According to Neander, the Rays are trying to accumulate as much as talent as they possibly can prior to spring training. It's a fair explanation, but it still doesn't solve the vast holes in the depth chart.

Rays trade 18-year-old infield prospect Angel Brachi for Marlins' DFA'd outfielder Victor Mesa Jr.

Despite the loaded outfield that the Rays presently have on the roster, there are still quite a few question marks. Will Cedric Mullins have a bounce back season after hitting a dismal .216 for the Orioles and Mets last season? Will Chandler Simpson improve his defense enough to stay on the field in his sophomore season? Will Jake Fraley recapture his breakout seasons with the Reds from 2022-2024? If any of these questions are answered with a simple "no", then the Rays need depth or they will sink fast.

Victor Mesa Jr. can be a part of that depth that gives the Rays some cushion in the outfield if things don't work out as planned. Also, he could push the present guys to work as hard as possible to earn and keep their role in the busy outfield picture. The 24-year-old Cuban outfielder will remain a rookie heading into the 2026 season which allows him to start the season with Triple-A Durham. However, the Rays will want to get a closer look at the left-handed slugger during spring training.

In a tiny sample size of 32 at-bats last year, Mesa Jr. hit .188 with three extra-base hits for the Miami Marlins. In six minor league seasons in the Miami organization, he slashed an impressive .257/.324/.400 with 49 home runs and over 300 RBIs. In fact, Mesa Jr. was the Marlins' No. 4 prospect before his ascension to the majors in 2024. It's surprising to see the NL East club part ways with their young and talented outfielder so soon, but the Rays know exactly what they could from their newly acquired athlete.