The Tampa Bay Rays called up shortstop prospect Carson Williams on Thursday while placing Ha-Seong Kim on the injured list with recurring back trouble. Williams, ranked No. 24 on ESPN's in-season prospect rankings, represents a glimpse into the organization's future during a disappointing campaign.

Kim underwent examination Wednesday and is expected to miss close to the minimum 10-day IL stint. The veteran shortstop's back issues created an opportunity for the 21-year-old Williams to make his major league debut.

Williams arrived at George M. Steinbrenner Field less than an hour before Thursday's series opener against St. Louis. The 2021 first-round pick (28th overall) was not in the starting lineup but is expected to see action later in the series.

The young shortstop earned an MiLB Gold Glove award in High Single-A during 2022. His defensive prowess has remained consistent while his offensive game continues developing at Triple-A Durham.

Williams posted a .213 batting average with a .318 on-base percentage and .447 slugging percentage across 111 games this season. He contributed 23 home runs, 55 RBIs and 22 stolen bases while showcasing his improved power potential.

"I am excited for sure," manager Kevin Cash said. "Carson, I give him a lot of credit. He had a great year last year, continued to put himself on the map, and after some early-season struggles, he's really come out of it and done well lately for Durham."

The promotion highlights Tampa Bay's focus on player development during a turbulent 2025 campaign. Hurricane damage to Tropicana Field forced the team to play home games at the Yankees' spring training facility.

The Rays entered Thursday at 61-66, sitting in fourth place in the AL East and 12.5 games behind division-leading Toronto. The organization transferred outfielder Stuart Fairchild to the 60-day IL to create roster space for Williams.