Rays make moves

News just coming in tonight, the Rays have declined player options on Willie Aybar and Dan Wheeler.

Willie Aybar played sparingly this season, coming in mostly to DH for the Rays. Aybar hit .230 for the Rays in 100 games. Aybar is a free agent, but he may resign with the Rays. He is only 27 and can play multiple positions for the Rays, so re-signing him might not a tough move.

The Rays also declined their option on Dan Wheeler. The reliever appeared in 64 games for the Rays while going 2-4. Not picking up his $4 million option is not surprising here. The Rays are confident they can resign him at a much lower price and try to get some of their bullpen back (why bring him back though?)

The Rays have also added Elliot Johnson, a utility player that can play multiple positions for the Rays. Johnson played last season in Durham where he hit .316. He gives the Rays another player that can move around and play any position, something that Maddon loves.

The Rays are sure to make many more moves this off-season, this is only the beginning.