Rays farm system discussion

[longtimefan]

This is off-topic but I wonder how the Rays end up repeatedly as a very good team and yet maintain what MLB ranks as the number 1 farm system?

[Lipman 1]

This is off-topic but I wonder how the Rays end up repeatedly as a very good team and yet maintain what MLB ranks as the number 1 farm system?

My guess is they have very, very sharp front office people / scouts and player development instructors.

[Krs1]

Because they constantly trade good players looking to be the slightest bit expensive and restock their system?

[rdivaldi]

This is off-topic but I wonder how the Rays end up repeatedly as a very good team and yet maintain what MLB ranks as the number 1 farm system?

Their farm system rating is surviving on undeserved reputation. Frankly, the Rays have not produced much talent over the past 10 years. They've drafted miserably even with the advantage they've been given over most teams (competitive balance picks). Their International Signings have been rather lackluster as well, except for Wander Franco who was considered the #1 prospect when he signed. What the Rays had going for them for awhile was the ability to fleece teams in trades, but those days seem to be ending as well as more and more teams are unwilling to part with top prospects for rentals and guys on the wrong side of 30. I'm not sure what publications will consider Rays #1 after Franco's graduation to the majors. Looking at their top 10, it's not very inspiring.

Some lean years are coming for the Rays. They'll have to cross their fingers that they'll be able to land some premium prospects for Glasnow and Meadows and hope that Franco lives up to his reputation.