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Another inter-division free agent signing that could benefit the Rays

With the Orioles signing Tyler O'Neill to a three-year deal, they will more than likely lose their power-hitting outfielder, Anthony Santander

ByMason Stacy|
Sep 23, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Tyler O'Neill (17) runs to third on a double hit by right fielder Wilyer Abreu (not pictured) against the Toronto Blue Jays during the third inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Sep 23, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Tyler O'Neill (17) runs to third on a double hit by right fielder Wilyer Abreu (not pictured) against the Toronto Blue Jays during the third inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images | John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

The Rays recently tapped into the free agency pool with their acquisition of lifelong AL East catcher, Danny Jansen. As the Winter Meetings are approaching, we will start to see more and more free agents leave the board. However, there is one other signing that may benefit the Rays more than people think.

Tyler O'Neill inks three-year deal with division-rival Orioles

Tyler O'Neill has signed a three-year deal with the Baltimore Orioles to take over an outfield role for the American League club. Due to this signing, it is practically common knowledge that Baltimore will no longer be able to resign their 2024 home run leader, Anthony Santander. The Venezuelan right fielder, who became a free agent for this offseason, was named to the AL All-Star team for the first time in his career. His season was highlighted by his career-high 44 home runs that was second only to AL MVP, Aaron Judge.

This outfielder swap could actually aid the Rays in their pursuit of the division in 2024. As a member of the Red Sox, O'Neill had a very respectable year as he hit .241 with 31 home runs. However, the Canadian right fielder struggled mightily against the Rays. O'Neill recorded a miserable .094 AVG with only one homer against Tampa Bay pitching.

If the Rays can continue their success against this prolific power-hitter, then they may see much more success against a club that tormented them in 2024. The Tampa Bay Rays finished the 2024 season with a 4-9 record against their divisional opponents. Leading the pack were Orioles sluggers, Gunnar Henderson and Anthony Santander, as they combined for eight home runs against the Rays.

If Santander is inevitably leaving the Baltimore clubhouse, then their offensive production will dwindle significantly, especially against Tampa Bay pitching.

Lastly, the Rays obtained a winning record against the Boston Red Sox and they will now be losing a stable power bat. the Boston front office may fish for more offense elsewhere, with the likes of Juan Soto still in their sights, but we feel that this exchange will ultimately give the Rays an advantage against both clubs in the long run.

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