Rays Recap: Zunino trade brings change to roster

Joey Wendle was snubbed for the Rookie of the Year award, the GM meetings began, and the Tampa Bay Rays traded for a catcher. It was a busy week for the Rays, let’s recap it.

Monday, November 5th:

The Cleveland Indians made it known that they are looking to shed some salary by trading some of their more expensive and talented veterans. I made an argument that the Tampa Bay Rays should trade for at least one of their most coveted assets, Carlos Carrasco.

Tuesday, November 6th:

On Monday night, the finalists were announced for the yearly BBWAA awards which include the MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year and Manager of the Year. The Rays had two finalists by the end of the night. Kevin Cash and Blake Snell were named finalists for the Manager of the Year and the Cy Young award. Erik Neander also began work as the GM meetings picked up steam.

They should have had three finalists to celebrate come Tuesday morning, but Joey Wendle was snubbed in the Rookie of the Year voting.

Wednesday, November 7th:

Prior to Wednesday becoming the busiest day of the offseason to this point for the Tampa Bay Rays, Patrick Davenport broke down the first part of the Rays surprising 2018 season.

Rumors began to swirl regarding the Rays and Mariners possibly making yet another trade. By the end of the night, the rumors became reality and the Rays had a deal in place to send Mallex Smith to Seattle, getting Mike Zunino and Guillermo Heredia back in return. Prior to that becoming a reality, I discussed trading for Realmuto or Zunino.

This was my initial reaction to the trade

Thursday, November 8th:

In the trade for Zunino, the Rays got Mariners prospect Michael Plassmeyer as well. Here is the breakdown of the southpaw who reminds me of Ryan Yarborough.

Friday, November 9th:

I discussed the three most likely prospects in the Rays system to be dealt this offseason.

Saturday, November 10th:

With Mallex Smith out of the equation in 2019, it is time for Austin Meadows to shine as he looks to take advantage of his first real opportunity in the show.

Pat Davenport introduced us to the man behind the mask and showed us who Mike Zunino is on and off the field.