Yandy Diaz, Carson Williams make first appearance in Rays starting lineup this spring

Two of the most highly-touted players in this organization will appear in the starting lineup for the first time this spring training. Although both athletes have grown in popularity as of late, it has been for two very different reasons. Yandy Diaz has become one of the greatest overall hitters in franchise history, especially after snagging the club's first ever AL batting champion honor in 2023.

Carson Williams, on the other hand, hasn't even played in an MLB game yet. His fame has risen due to his placement on most MLB top prospects lists. The No. 4 overall prospect displayed impeccable defense and a powerful bat in Double-A Montgomery last season. The 21-year old also showed off his skill set for Team USA in the Premier12 tournament during the offseason. Alongside speedy outfielder Chandler Simpson, they form an intimidating future for the Rays.

The Rays technically have three shortstops on the roster at the moment in Ha-Seong Kim, Taylor Walls, and Jose Caballero. Although Caballero got his first taste of outfield play in yesterday's game against the Red Sox, it still seems like one of them will have to drop off the roster once Kim arrives in May.

What does that mean for Carson Williams? The front office's decision to sign Ha-Seong Kim to a two-year deal has likely pushed his big league ETA to 2026. This may not be a negative situation though because the talented infielder hasn't even played in a Triple-A game yet. A full season in Durham will be great for his development and the Rays will be able to track his progress throughout the 2025 campaign.

Rays contact-first infielder Yandy Diaz has been slotted into the two-hole today behind leadoff hitter Richie Palacios. In 2024, Diaz only hit second in the lineup three times and he produced a .182 AVG in 11 at-bats. The first baseman was primarily the Rays leadoff hitter as he started 263 games at that spot in the lineup over the last two seasons. Kevin Cash may be trying out new players in the leadoff role to give more speed to the position.

As the Rays look for their first win this spring training, there are a few other notable lineup details. First of all, Curtis Mead will be getting reps at first base this afternoon, as Diaz is named the club's designated hitter.

Also, Kameron Misner has earned the start in center field. The 27-year old outfielder got a hit in his only spring training at-bat so far. Misner will be competing with Jonny DeLuca and Chandler Simpson for time in center field this season.

Lastly, energetic utility-man Richie Palacios will be playing second base for the first time this spring. The New York native played 34 games at the middle infield position last year and he'll likely receive substantial time there again to give regular starter Brandon Lowe some much needed days off.