Tampa Bay Rays: How a Hunter Pence trade spark a playoff push
By James Barone
The Tampa Bay Rays lack one more piece to help them make a final push for the postseason and it might just be veteran outfielder Hunter Pence.
In the AL East, behind the powerhouse Yankees, sits the Tampa Bay Rays who are in need of some sort of change to make their playoff dreams turn into a reality.
This Rays team, which is lacking in postseason experience, could use someone with October ball experience. Someone who has played in two World Series and has a .390 batting average in those games; someone who is a four-time all-star and a thirteen-year veteran.
Of course, that describes veteran Hunter Pence who the Rays seem to be very interested in.
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Having spent five years with Houston Astros, two with Philadelphia Phillies, and one with the Texas Rangers, Hunter Pence has already put together a solid playing career. He is mostly remembered, however, for his time with the San Francisco Giants where he played an integral part in two championships.
Hunter Pence could make big contributions with the Rays as they head into the final months of the season.
As it stands now, the first Wild Card spot in the AL most likely goes to the Cleveland Indians (58-41). The second Wild Card spot will more than likely end up with the Oakland A’s (57-44). However, the Rays (57-46 record) are within striking distance, and landing versatile Pence could help in the long run.
Another team that at Pence as a potential solution to spark a playoff run, was the Texas Rangers. But, once the Rangers losing streak ended after seven losses in a row, they seemed to have lost interest in Pence.
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If Hunter Pence is traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, they will be a real contender for the playoffs. Not only could Pence help them secure a playoff spot, but he may help the Rays play late into October.