The Tampa Bay Rays have notoriously done an excellent job of identifying and developing young players they target, whether via the MLB draft or when acquiring prospects in trades.
Ahead of the MLB trade deadline last year, one of the veterans that they unloaded in a deal was outfielder Randy Arozarena. He was traded to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for right-handed pitcher Brody Hopkins, who is now the team’s No. 3-ranked prospect, and outfielder Aidan Smith, who is ranked No. 6.
Hopkins pitched this season at Double-A Montgomery, while Smith was patrolling the outfield with High-A Bowling Green. The talented pitcher has already begun his offseason preparations, but Smith is going to have the opportunity to play in more games.
The Rays have decided to send their second-best outfield prospect, behind only Theo Gillen, to participate in the Arizona Fall League. It will give him the opportunity to get more reps and continue building upon his approach at the plate.
Aidan Smith is best Rays prospect heading to Arizona Fall League