Rays sign former USF infielder to a minor league deal

The Rays were able to execute a few minor league deals days prior to the holidays. One of those acquisitions was of a former Silver Slugger that has been plagued with injuries and has therefore, experienced diminished power numbers. The latter is a middle infielder that hasn't been able to make his mark in the big leagues yet, but has played in some familiar territory.

Rays sign former Rockies second baseman to a minor league contract

28-year old Coco Montes has been acquired by the Rays with a minor league deal. The 6-0 middle infielder has bounced around to a few different leagues after his collegiate stint with the University of South Florida Bulls. Montes was a standout in his junior year of college, as he hit a career-high .331 with 27 extra base hits en route to being selected to the AAC Championship All-Tournament team.

The talented shortstop also played alongside a Rays fan-favorite while in a Bulls jersey. Shane McClanahan finished his USF career the same year as Montes, and both athletes were drafted by their respective teams in the summer of 2018.

McClanahan was selected in the first round of the MLB draft by the Tampa Bay Rays and Montes was picked in the 15th round by the Colorado Rockies. The Coral Gables product made consistent progress through the Rockies farm system, as he was promoted each season until his debut in 2023. The right-handed slugger showed some impressive offensive numbers, especially for an infielder, as he was able to produce a .288 AVG and 85 home runs over a six-year minor league career.

Although, his short time in the major leagues left much to be desired. In 38 major league at-bats, Montes accrued seven hits, one home run, and 12 strikeouts. The versatile athlete was designated for assignment due to his insufficient performance.

In 2024, Montes was released by the Rockies Triple-A affiliate, despite slashing .335/.414/.551 in 64 games. It is mysterious as to why the Rockies decided to part ways with the skilled hitter, but nonetheless, the Miami native resumed his baseball career in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants. Coco Montes persisted in this new environment, remaining consistent in his offensive approach. The righty hit .272 with 16 extra-base hits in 46 contests for the Giants.

The Rays front office has accomplished yet another low risk, high reward signing. There's a possibility that Montes makes little impact with the Rays in 2025, but if he can continue to build on his solid hitting approach, then the middle infielder could be a great depth option. The Rays middle infield has struggled to get consistent offensive contribution, so hopefully, Montes can bring healthy competition to Caballero and Walls and force them to win their role.