1 player the Rays could reluctantly trade this offseason

Every offseason comes with its fair share of excitement and disappointment as teams attempt to arrange their rosters in the best possible way, while abiding to their particular budget restrictions. At the end of the day, this sport is still within the realm of a huge business and difficult decisions need to be made. That couldn't be more true for the Rays as they hover towards the bottom in team payroll. Therefore, let's discuss one player that the Rays may reluctantly trade before the 2025 campaign.

After a below average season in the eyes of every Rays' fan, we would hope that the club could construct a few moves that can benefit the present roster. However, we're aware that there may be decisions that force us to let go of highly productive players. One specific rumor that is floating around is a trade involving Rays' brilliant first baseman, Yandy Diaz.

Diaz has been arguably the best player in a Rays' uniform since 2022. His amazing consistency at the plate has carried Tampa Bay's offense for the last few seasons. In his six years with the Rays, he has produced an impressive .289 AVG with 74 HRs and 313 RBIs. The power numbers are lacking, but his output as a leadoff hitter has been exemplary.

His best season came in 2023 where he led the American League in hitting with a .330 AVG. This accomplishment was the Rays' first batting title in franchise history. That's an incredible feat considering some of the great hitters that have come through this organization in its 26 years of existence.

Despite the abundant success, Tampa Bay could possibly be parting ways with the right-handed infielder. His worth is increasing each season and the Rays' front office may decide to trade him for present and future help before he becomes unaffordable.

A few teams that have shown interest in Diaz are the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and Detroit Tigers. The Mariners received very poor production from the first base position this past year as they DFA'd Ty France and currently only have one first baseman on their roster in Tyler Locklear. Also, the Rays and Mariners have swapped multiple players with each other over the past few seasons as we dealt Randy Arozarena (2024) and Luke Raley (2023) to the northwest club. A Yandy Diaz transaction between the Rays and Mariners may be a likely scenario.

If the Rays elect to trade their high-caliber athlete, they may think about grabbing a player from free agency to fill the gap at first base. Pete Alonso and Christian Walker are available via free agency this offseason. Alonso is a Tampa native, so it could be an appropriate fit. Justin Turner, Anthony Rizzo, and Rowdy Tellez are a few other possible candidates. Nevertheless, we're sure the Rays will make the most profitable decision they can, even if it means losing our beloved first baseman.