Tampa Bay Rays: Fake GM Simulation Update

The FanSided Fake GM Simulation has begun and with it has followed a few trades to begin the 3 day event. The fake Tampa Bay Rays have some new faces, lets break down the moves.
Disclaimer: I attempted to approach this simulation as though I were actually the Tampa Bay Rays and I am acting with the restraint of an 80 million dollar payroll.
My main goals during this simulation:
- Trade for controllable starting pitching and if needed, sign a free agent starter
- Trade for a powerful and impactful bat at first base
- Move Cron and Duffy
- Replace Heredia with a more powerful right handed bat who could play outfield and even DH
- Solidify back end of the bullpen
As I have written about previously, I think the Tampa Bay Rays should be in the market for Paul Goldschmidt or Jose Abreu. I will further explain both scenarios later in the article.
As stated above, I believe the Rays may be looking to move Matt Duffy and are likely going to move C.J. Cron. I acted according to the beliefs above and swung a few trades including Duffy and Cron.
I don’t expect the Rays to go crazy this offseason but I do expect them to look to upgrade a few areas. With the playoffs in reach, I expect them to pursue those upgrades rather aggressively, and I intend to mirror those expectations with my “actions” in the days that follow.
Lets break down the trades…