The Tampa Bay Rays have set themselves up for a dream season. Now they must do everything they can at the MLB trade deadline to make it come true.
Using the trade deadline to buy and sell is part of the Rays’ M.O. They do this to balance competing in the present time while building for the future. The way this season has unfolded should encourage Tampa Bay to be aggressive buyers as they push towards the postseason.
Best Team In The American League So Far
Heading into the All-Star break, Tampa Bay sits in first place in the American League East, and atop the AL, with a record of 56-37. They have the best trio of hitters in MLB carrying their lineup, and a strong pitching staff, anchored by three all-stars.
The rest of the American League lacks real contenders, with only four other teams posting a winning record. The Rays are 6-3 against the rival New York Yankees, a team many consider favorites to win the AL pennant. The path to a deep playoff run is there for the taking, and Tampa Bay has the assets to build on their strong start.
Incentive To Trade Prospects
The Rays are known for having one of the deepest farm systems in baseball. That depth could be compromised in the coming offseason as a number of their prospects will be eligible for the Rule 5 draft. With limited spots on the 40-man roster to protect most of them, the Rays can trade them now for help rather than losing them for nothing.
Using the young talent makes Tampa Bay an ideal trading partner for other teams looking to sell. They have a couple of positions that need upgrades, and have enough in the farm system to maintain a strong pipeline for the future. They have earned the right with their play for the front office to be aggressive at the deadline.
Tampa Bay Rays Must Be Aggressive At The Trade Deadline
President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander is always willing to talk trade for any big stars available. They have been linked to the best available trade targets: Luis Arraez, Ryan Jeffers, and Tarik Skubal. These players have game-changing talent that can significantly elevate the team.
If they cannot land a big fish, Tampa Bay needs to pivot to smaller trades to give itself as many quality options as possible to boost its offense and pitching. They could have internal help on the way with players returning from injury, but that should not stop them from being aggressive on the trade market, especially when other contenders will do the same.
Finishing with the top seed in the American League gives the Rays their best path to the World Series. They would avoid the wild card round, where they have been eliminated in their last two playoff appearances, and they would have home-field advantage, where they have excelled with the best home record in baseball.
The dream season can become a reality for Tampa Bay with a strong trade deadline. This might be their best shot to win their first championship, so why not go all out for it?
