Newest Rays Produced Impressive Spring Numbers in Key Metric

While the sample size was small for players, it is encouraging to see so many players swinging harder during spring training. The faster bat speed a player generates, the more damage they will do at the plate.

The biggest increase in spring speed during spring training this year, compared to 2025, is that of outfield prospect Jacob Melton. Acquired from the Houston Astros as part of the three-team deal that sent second baseman Brandon Lowe to the Pittsburgh Pirates, he showed a major increase in bat speed.

Last year, on 134 competitive swings, Melton had an average swing speed of 72.7 mph. While a strong number, he reached truly elite speeds during camp this year with 13 competitive swings averaging 77.6 mph.

The only player who swung the bat harder than Melton amongst Tampa Bay players was Junior Caminero at 78.6 mph. That is a slight uptick from his 78.5 mph last season, which was in the 100th percentile.

Some prospects who got bat speed numbers recorded for the first time also produced some eye-popping numbers.

The hardest swinger was outfielder Brailer Guerrero. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, he struggled mightily during the Arizona Fall League, but that swing speed at least gives some hope that he can produce better once the minor league season begins.

He recorded a 76.2 mph swing, which was just ahead of catcher Dom Keegan, who had a 75.7. Also above the 75 mph threshold was first baseman Xavier Isaac, who is returning from brain surgery last year and is one of the top prospects in the organization.

Austin Overn, acquired from the Baltimore Orioles as part of the Shane Baz return package, averaged 74.1 mph on his six swings.