The Rays announced that they have selected the contract of just-acquired infielder Oliver Dunn from Triple-A Durham. He’ll take the active roster spot of fellow infielder Ben Williamson, who’s headed to the 10-day injured list due to a lower back strain. The Rays acquired Dunn from the White Sox in exchange for lefty Joe Rock last night.
Tampa Bay also reinstated veteran left-hander Steven Matz from the 15-day injured list and optioned righty Chase Solesky to Durham in a corresponding move. Matz will start today’s game, per the team.
Dunn, 28, doesn’t have an impressive big league track record but has been on a tear with the Sox’ top affiliate in Charlotte this season. He’s a .206/.261/.290 in parts of two seasons (145 plate appearances) with the Brewers, but Dunn has raked at a .295/.393/.545 clip with the Knights this season. He’s connected on nine homers, gone 9-for-10 in stolen base attempts and walked at a stout 13.1% clip (against a 23.5% strikeout rate).
Dunn gives the Rays a left-handed bat with some versatility to step in for Williamson, who’s seen time at second base, shortstop and third base for the Rays this season while batting .268/.349/.349 (99 wRC+). Dunn hasn’t played shortstop in the majors but has 262 minor league innings there (196 across the past two seasons). He has ample experience at third base and second base in addition to more limited work in left field and at first base.
