Tampa Bay Rays: Willy Adames time is coming but not here yet
It is certainly exciting that the Tampa Bay Rays have promoted one of their top prospects in shortstop Willy Adames. However, his time has not yet come at the major league level.
There really is not much left for Tampa Bay Rays prospect Willy Adames to prove in the minor leagues. A consensus top 25 prospect for the second consecutive year, Adames had produced a stellar .311/.387/.466 batting line, hitting four homers and five doubles. He has continued to draw walks at an excellent 11.5% rate, with an acceptable 22.8% strikeout rate. At this point, he is ready for the majors.
As the Rays promoted Adames to the major league roster on Tuesday, one could imagine that the Tampa Bay front office has a similar view. Recalled to take the place of Joey Wendle, who had been placed on paternity leave, it would appear that Adames is finally getting a chance to start his major league career.
The problem is, the Rays have other concerns regarding Adames that fall outside of his performance in Durham. While he may well be ready to take a spot on the major league roster, the Rays also need to watch his arbitration clock. While they already have an extra year of team control, Adames would still fall into that Super Two status. For a team that watches every cent like Scrooge McDuck in his vault, bringing one of their top prospects to the majors now is a bit curious.
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With those financial concerns in mind, Adames may not truly see his time in the majors begin. Yes, he made his debut, Albeit in the unenviable position of facing the Red Sox Chris Sale. However, as soon as Wendle is ready to return, it would not be a surprise to see Adames sent back to Durham, where he will continue to wait for a real opportunity.
As it stands, there is not quite a clear path to playing time for Adames. Adeiny Hechavarria, while on the disabled list, is still a part of the franchise. Matt Duffy has held down third base, as Wendle has done at second. Daniel Robertson has emerged as a stellar utility man on the infield, showing solid power and an excellent ability to get on base. The Rays also have Brad Miller and C.J. Cron, as well as utility man Rob Refsnyder, to add to that infield mix.
Eventually, Adames will force the Tampa Bay Rays to find a permanent spot for him in the lineup. Hechavarria could either be traded or released, especially if his production does not improve. Miller has also been a candidate to be sent elsewhere, although his place at first is not necessarily blocking Adames from the majors. Other moves would still be forthcoming before he gets a real chance in the majors.
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At some point, Willy Adames will have his time to shine for the Tampa Bay Rays. Even though he is making his debut, his time is just not quite here.