Height
6'1"
Weight
180 lbs
Age
22
College
N/A
Draft
2021, Rd 1, #28
Experience
1 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsA
| Year | Team | GP | AVG | HR | RBI | OPS | SB | H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 34 | 0.17592593 | 5 | 14 | 0.56189084 | 2 | 19 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
AAV
$780K/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Carson Williams' one-year, $0.8M deal with the Rays earns an A CVI, representing exceptional value for an above-average starter at baseball's most demanding defensive position. The 23-year-old shortstop brings legitimate starting potential at a salary that barely registers above league minimum, giving Tampa Bay enormous upside with minimal financial commitment. Shortstop remains the scarcest position in baseball outside of elite catching, and securing an above-average contributor for under $1M annually is the type of shrewd roster construction that defines successful small-market operations. Williams fits perfectly into the Rays' competitive window, offering both immediate defensive reliability and offensive upside that could easily outperform this modest investment. The short-term structure also maintains maximum flexibility for Tampa Bay, allowing them to extend Williams if he develops into a cornerstone piece or pivot quickly if he plateaus. For a franchise that consistently maximizes WAR per dollar spent, this deal represents exactly the kind of calculated risk that has kept the Rays competitive despite payroll constraints. Williams' combination of age, positional value, and contract structure makes this one of the most compelling value plays in recent memory.
Fan & Media Sentiment
Carson Williams continues to command respect as Tampa Bay's premier shortstop prospect, earning a B+ sentiment grade despite the organizational shuffle that has defined his recent trajectory. The 22-year-old's frequent movement between Triple-A Durham and the majors reflects the Rays' trademark roster depth rather than any fundamental concerns about his development, with beat writers consistently framing his call-ups as merit-based opportunities when injuries create openings. Williams faces the challenge of breaking through a crowded infield that includes veteran Taylor Walls, but media coverage remains bullish on his elite defensive tools and improving bat. The prospect's ability to maintain positive momentum despite limited big-league opportunities speaks to both his talent and the organization's long-term faith in his trajectory. Fan sentiment reflects cautious optimism that Williams will eventually claim a regular role in Tampa Bay's system, viewing his current status as a natural progression rather than a red flag.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 4/3 | @ MIN | L 4-10 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
Transaction History
News & Buzz
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