Three observations from the Pirates' 4-1 win over the Rays here today at LECOM Park: 

• There's no doubt that Henry Davis has a lot to prove offensively this season. But he deserves credit for the work he's done to provide defensive value behind the plate. I've talked a lot about the conversations I've had with pitchers who praise Davis for his ability to work with a staff, and the arm talent is there, too. He showed that in throwing out Jacob Melton with a perfect throw to end the first inning. Perfect tag by Alika Williams, as well. That's no slouch he threw out, either. Melton is a guy with 90th percentile sprint speed. He stole 46 bags in the minors in 2023 and 30 bags a year later. 

• Imagine the creative things the Pirates could do on the basepaths with a guy like Jake Mangum, who just causes so much havoc out there. Like today when he took off for second base before the pitcher even went home. He puts the guy in an uncomfortable situation where he has to get a throw off quick and it all goes awry. Allowed Williams to score from third. More of that is needed. Any way to manufacture runs. 

• I don't see Williams taking reps away from guys who need them, so I don't have an issue with him playing a good bit this spring. It's not like him playing takes away from a guy like Konnor Griffin's development. Griffin will get the playing time he needs. As for Williams, he's a fine Class AAA Indianapolis depth piece with a good infield glove and arm. Sure he's not a bat-first guy, but it's spring training, so why not allow him to get some reps during games that don't count for anything. Everyone's here to work on things and get better in games, including the guys expected to start the year in the minors.