Tampa Bay Rays players that could be on the block

Alex Cobb

During the trade rumors that surrounded the Tampa Bay Rays throughout the offseason, Alex Cobb was a name that frequently came up. Understandably, the Rays balked on trading him, as he had been coming off of Tommy John surgery and was at the nadir of his value. Yet, as a free agent after this season, it seemed likely that Cobb would be on the block at some point.

That decision to retain Cobb has, for the most part, worked out in the Rays favor. Although Cobb has had his struggles, as evidenced by his 4.54 ERA and 1.425 WHiP. However, he has averaged over six innings a start, and has taken the ball every fifth day, proving his health.

Cobb’s numbers are also greatly skewed by his implosion against the Mariners on Saturday. Prior to that outing, he had posted a much more favorable 3.67 ERA and a 1.296 WHiP, looking more like the pitcher he had been prior to his injury. His command has been solid, and his curve has looked good once again.

He may not be that top of the rotation starter that can change a series, but Cobb is still a solid middle of the rotation arm. Considering the number of teams looking for pitching help, he could end up fetching a solid return on the market. As he is an impending free agent, even if the Rays are contending, it may still be likely that Cobb finds himself elsewhere come the end of July.

Of all the players on the Rays, Alex Cobb may be the most likely to be traded. If he continues his strong performance, that is all the more likely.