2 former Rays players sign with American Association independent league

You can't play this sport at the highest level forever and we're seeing high quality athletes drop from the ranks of MLB stardom almost daily. Most of these players view that as a sign to move on to a new career, but others ramp up their work in a less desirable league in the hopes that they'll return to the pinnacle of baseball. Here's two former Rays players that recently signed with an independent league after being left out to dry in free agency.

1. Brett Phillips

It's impossible speak on the Rays incredible 2020 postseason run without mentioning Brett Phillips, and the crazy part is that he had only three at-bats in the whole playoffs. Everyone remembers the one World Series appearance that he made where he deposited a clutch single into right center to allow the tying and winning run to cross the plate. It was an unbelievable Game 4 and the Florida native proved that you can make a difference no matter how much playing time you get.

Nonetheless, Phillips' career hasn't been all sunshine and rainbows. The 30-year old outfielder has a career batting average below the Mendoza Line (.200) and he's only accrued 31 home runs and 99 RBIs. As a member of five different major league teams, organizations were still giving him a solid chance due to his infectious spirit and impressive throwing arm from the outfield.

However, his production never amounted to MLB potential. His best season did come in a Rays uniform when the high-energy athlete slashed .206/.300/.427 with 13 home runs in 118 games. The MLB world will certainly miss his personality, but Phillips has decided to sign with the Cleburne Railroaders of the American Association League as a pitcher. Best of luck to the former fan-favorite!

2. Jake Diekman

Former Rays reliever Jake Diekman has also signed to play with the American Association League. The hard-throwing lefty will be taking his talents to the Lincoln Saltdogs of Lincoln, Nebraska. Diekman served a very short stint in a Rays jersey, but he certainly made an impact as his lone season in Tampa was actually one of his best down the stretch. At the ripe age of 36, the Nebraska native produced a 2.18 ERA in 45.1 innings out of the bullpen.

Despite his small sample size with the Rays, Diekman's career spanned over 13 seasons. The hurler played for nine different organizations along the way. His best campaign (according to WAR) was the with the Oakland Athletics in 2020. In the shortened season, he put up an absurd 0.42 ERA as he gave up only one earned runs in 21.1 innings of work. We wish him the best with his home state team!