Tampa Bay Rays promote OF Josh Lowe; Activate 1B Ji-Man Choi and RHP Matt Wisler

Prior to their series finale against the Boston Red Sox on Wednesday, the Tampa Bay Rays have promoted their top outfield prospect Josh Lowe from Triple-A Durham as part of a small flurry of roster moves. In addition to Lowe joining the active roster, the Rays have also activated first baseman Ji-Man Choi and right-handed pitcher Matt Wisler from the Injured List.

In the corresponding roster moves, the Rays have placed outfielder Randy Arozarena on paternity leave, right-handed pitcher Louis Head has been optioned, and right-handed pitcher David Hess has been designated for assignment.

The Rays originally selected Josh Lowe with their first selection (13th overall) in the 2016 draft. Throughout his time in the minor leagues, Lowe always displayed impressive tools but struggled to put it altogether on the field. However, in 2019, he turned a corner in his development as his power began to shine through. Thus, he became one of the Rays top prospects. Thus far in 2021, the lefty batting Lowe has hit .282/.369/.540 with 21 HR and 24 stolen bases over 98 games, all the while playing above average defense in the outfield.

It’s been a struggle for Ji-Man Choi to remain healthy during the 2021 season, as he has endured several stints on the Injured List for myriad reasons. While on the field, he has been productive, hitting .250/.364/.435 with 9 HR over 64 games, accruing 1.1 fWAR.

Whatever was ailing Wisler early on this season, he seems to have left behind in San Francisco as he has been excellent since joining the Rays bullpen in early June. The veteran reliever has pitched in 24 games for the Rays and over 27 ¹⁄₃ innings pitched, he has registered a 1.98 ERA / 2.18 FIP to go with a 32.7 K% and a ridiculous 3.8 BB%. He went on the Injured List in August, dealing with an injured middle finger.

All three players will be active in time for tonight’s finale against the Red Sox.