Tampa Bay Rays considering Matt Davidson as two way player

The Tampa Bay Rays are looking at former Chicago White Sox third baseman Matt Davidson as a two way player.

Over the years, the Tampa Bay Rays have displayed a great deal of creativity to compete. From being one of the first teams to lock up their prospects to long term contract extensions, to their usage of the opener last year, the Rays have found ways to stay competitive despite their salary limitations.

Given their penchant for the unexpected and attempting to maximize their roster, it is not a surprise that they would be interested in any potential two way players that are available. That interest is reportedly extended to for White Sox third baseman Matt Davidson, who showed promise as a possible two way player last year.

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Davidson is an intriguing player, not just because of what he showed on the mound. Offensively, he produced a .228/.319/.419 batting line, hitting 20 homers. While those numbers may not be overly impressive, he produced a 103 OPS+, and would provide another power bat in the Rays lineup capable of playing both corner infield positions. As Ji-Man Choi has yet to establish himself in the majors, Davidson would be a solid backup option at first.

Of course, it is that work on the mound that makes Davidson far more interesting. While he only pitched three innings last year, he performed quite well. Davidson allowed just one hit and a walk, striking out two batters while firing a 92 MPH fastball, a slider, and a change. His pitches were actually in the top 10% in late break, according to the Twitter account MLB Quality of Pitch.

As intriguing as Davidson would be for the Rays this year, bringing him on board would also have benefits over the long term. The Rays drafted Brendan McKay with the fourth overall pick in 2017, allowing him to be a two way player in the minors. As McKay has already reached High-A, it may not be long until he finds his way to the majors. Having experience in handling a two way player can make a difference in whether or not he can be that weapon the Rays envision.

The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly interested in bringing Matt Davidson on board. He would be the perfect piece for the Rays, not just for this year, but with an eye towards the future.