Promising Young Arm Shines in 2025
The Tampa Bay Rays have long been known for their ability to develop pitching talent, and that trend continued in 2025 with the emergence of prospect Pete Fairbanks. After an excellent season at the minor league level, Fairbanks has solidified himself as one of the organization's top pitching prospects.
Fairbanks, a 24-year-old right-hander, dominated opposing hitters throughout the 2025 campaign. He posted a 2.81 ERA across 25 starts at Double-A and Triple-A, racking up 168 strikeouts in 149 innings. His combination of mid-90s velocity and a sharp breaking ball has scouts excited about his potential to contribute at the Major League level.
Infield Depth Shines
In addition to Fairbanks' breakout, the Rays also saw strong performances from several infield prospects. Utility man Jonathan Aranda hit .305 with 12 home runs and 54 RBIs between Double-A and Triple-A, showcasing his versatility and bat-to-ball skills.
Catcher Hunter Feduccia and first baseman Nick Fortes also had impressive seasons, solidifying themselves as potential contributors for the big-league club in the near future. Fortes in particular is expected to earn a substantial raise through arbitration this offseason after a 20-homer, 75-RBI campaign.
Veteran Bounce-Back
On the Major League side, second baseman Brandon Lowe rebounded from an injury-plagued 2024 season to recapture his All-Star form. Lowe hit .284 with 28 home runs and 92 RBIs, providing a much-needed power boost to the Rays' lineup.
The Rays will look to build on these promising developments as they aim to bounce back in 2026 and reassert themselves as contenders in the stacked AL East.
TL;DR
- Rays pitching prospect Pete Fairbanks emerged as a top talent with a dominant 2025 season in the minors
- Infield depth was a strength, with strong performances from Jonathan Aranda, Hunter Feduccia, and Nick Fortes
- Veteran second baseman Brandon Lowe bounced back with an All-Star caliber season, providing a power boost for the Rays