The Tampa Bay Rays are never going to be a team with larger payrolls. Any money they have will be spent as cautiously as possible as they look to maximize any expenditures. Extensions are usually handed to players at the beginning of their careers, with the exception of Evan Longoria. Even he was traded away, as no one ever stays in Tampa Bay for too long.
There are players that want to change this. Wander Franco signed an 11 year extension worth $182 million that includes a team option for 2033, a contract that he hopes will be the beginning to keep him with the franchise permanently. It is something that Tyler Glasnow is hoping for as well.
Tyler Glasnow should be Tampa Bay Rays next extension candidate
To be fair, Glasnow admits that there is some uncertainty about his situation. Given his injury and that he is two years away from free agency, he is considered a potential trade candidate. That does not change his feelings as he stated in an interview that he wants to remain with the Rays for the long term.
Glasnow can be a difference maker when healthy. He has typically been excellent during in his time in Tampa Bay, posting a solid 3.10 ERA and a 1.001 WHiP in his 261.2 innings, striking out 354 batters with 82 walks. The problem is that his production has come over three and a half years due to injuries.
But those injuries are also an opportunity for the Rays. Glasnow has displayed the potential to be a top of the rotation pitcher when he can take the mound. Those injury issues could make him a potential bargain, one that could fit within the Rays’ budget.
An extension would work well for both sides. The Rays could keep that needed ace for a bargain. Glasnow, meanwhile, would be able to stay in Tampa Bay for the long term as he hopes to while getting financial security in case he deals with further injuries. It seems as though a deal could be made.
Tyler Glasnow wants to stay with the Tampa Bay Rays. He should be the next player they look to sign to a long term extension.