Rays Winter Meetings: Four Possible Trade Partners

Sep 15, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder

(6) dives but cannot make the catch on a ball hit by Texas Rangers center fielder

(not pictured) in the sixth inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The Rangers won 6-5. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

HOUSTON ASTROS

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The Astros are reportedly still looking to improve the back of their pen. Although they’ve been linked to

, it looks like that ship has sailed if rumors are right that he’s going to the Dodgers. They may be looking for more than one option in the pen if they do strike a deal with the Rays, but one is more likely at this point.

They Astros were surprised when Colby Rasmus accepted their qualifying offer, meaning they have some OF depth to deal from. What they may need most for a playoff run is infield depth behind their regulars.

For the Rays, they could use a little more depth in the outfield. Jake Marisnick has the ability to play LF/CF/RF and has four tools. He hasn’t come close to his ceiling yet. If not him, the Rays could also have interest in their 1B depth which includes Jon Singleton, as well as A.J. Reed who had 69 extra-base hits over 523 AB in 2015.

Pros: Astros and Rays have seemingly dealt well together, managing a deal within the last few weeks. They’re well versed in where the other team stands, and they match up fairly well.

Cons: The fact that a bigger deal didn’t get done earlier may indicate they value players differently. Or, it could simply mean they were never looking at a bigger deal.

Chances: Above-Average

Most Likely to Become a Ray? Jake Marisnick, A.J. Reed

Most Likely to Become an Astro? Tim Beckham, James Loney

Next: The final partners are desperate and may be sellers for 2016