Rays Dirty Dozen: SP Depth Leads Rays into 2016

Sep 25, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Jake Odorizzi (23) throws a pitch during the first inning in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

RHP Jake Odorizzi – 25 years old

He may be the best trade chip the Rays have as they look for an improved lineup, but I’m a bigger fan of keeping him around than of trading him. Having as strong a 1-2 punch as what Archer and Odorizzi would provide the Rays would go a long way to giving them an edge in the A.L. East, and it may be the best in the division. He’s seemingly ready to reach the 200 inning mark, and although he faded some in 2015 as the season wore on, he should have more stamina in 2016 now that he has the innings behind.

It’s safe to say that he’ll remain the centre of trade talks in the New Year, and if he does get dealt it should be for a fair haul. The Rays did chat with him and his agent about an extension, so it’s also possible that he remains with the Rays long-term and helps provide the Rays some of the best pitching depth in MLB.

Next: The top lefty in the rotation at #3