Tampa Bay Rays could have more trades on the way
By Tim Haberin
The Tampa Bay Rays got to work quickly this offseason, completing a deal earlier this month that sent starting pitcher Nate Karns to the Seattle Mariners. They likely aren’t done either, as reports suggest that Tampa could be looking to move a few other pieces as well.
According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the Rays could deal yet another of their starters. He identifies Drew Smyly and Matt Moore as potential candidates. The 26-year-old Smyly was limited to 12 outings this season, his second with Tampa Bay, after suffering a tear in his shoulder. He impressed when he did take the mound, however, posting a 3.11 ERA and 10.4 K/9 rate over 66.2 innings.
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Moore struggled while working his way back from Tommy John surgery, managing a bloated 5.43 ERA and 1.54 WHIP in 63 frames. He and Smyly come with health concerns, but pitching-needy clubs might be interested in taking a chance on either in light of their previous accomplishments. Both are lefties as well, which could make for some additional appeal.
The Rays’ most coveted assets are likely to be found in their bullpen. Brad Boxberger and Jake McGee are said to be on the trade block. ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick pegs the Dodgers, Nationals and Diamondbacks as possible suitors, while Topkin adds the Tigers and Astros to the list.
Boxberger did an admirable job in his first season as Tampa Bay’s closer, collecting an AL-high 41 saves. Elbow surgery caused McGee to miss the start of the campaign, restricting him to 39 appearances on the year. He’s put up great numbers since 2012, though: 2.58 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and a 5.02 K/BB ratio over 226.2 innings.
Considering the prospect package the Padres just got for Craig Kimbrel, it’s probably not a bad idea for the Rays to dangle these guys.
Topkin also posits that a slim first base market could compel Tampa to shop James Loney. Teams that fall outside of slugger Chris Davis‘ price range might view the 10-year veteran as a decent alternative. His bat has been somewhat underappreciated throughout his career. Over the past three seasons with the Rays he has sported a .291/.337/.393 slash line.
With their significant payroll constraints, the Rays are used to resorting to creativity in order to remain competitive. This offseason appears to be no exception. Tampa Bay is never afraid to cash in on a valuable commodity, knowing it can dip into a farm system that it keeps replenished by such moves.
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Under debutante skipper Kevin Cash, the Rays finished the 2015 season at 80-82, surprisingly remaining on the fringes of the postseason picture throughout the year. Pushing the right buttons this winter could lead to improved results in 2016.