Free agent outfielder Randal Grichuk could be affordable depth piece for Rays

The Rays outfield depth chart has quite a few question marks going into the 2025 season, especially after the Jose Siri trade in November. Is Jonny DeLuca ready to be an everyday center fielder in the big leagues? Is Christopher Morel a reliable defensive outfielder? Can Richie Palacios be a consistent outfielder? Will Josh Lowe stay healthy? Therefore, adding a depth outfielder into the mix will be very helpful to spark competition and aid DeLuca in the center field innings.

Former Blue Jays outfielder Randal Grichuk could give much needed depth to the Rays outfield

In 2014, a 22-year old Randal Grichuk made his debut in St. Louis with the Cardinals. At first, the former 24th overall pick didn't live up to the hype as he only produced 10 extra base hits in 47 games. However, in his rookie campaign, the gritty slugger slashed .276/.329/.548 with 17 HRs and 23 doubles. His 23 two-base hits finished 5th on a Cardinals roster that completed 2015 with a division-leading 100 wins.

Grichuk became an everyday player the next season, as he mashed 24 home runs in 132 exhibitions. His seasons haven't shown the same productivity since 2015 and 2016, but the Texas native still accrued at least 20 home runs in three more professional seasons. In fact, with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2019, Grichuk hit 31 home runs and drove in 80 runs. His strikeout numbers amassed to a career-high 163 that year, but the Rays front office should consider adding him for his power potential.

Moreover, Randal Grichuk plays above average defense and he has experience in all three positions throughout his 11-year career. In 2015 and 2016, the talented fielder recorded a 1.000 fielding percentage in the difficult center field position. In his MLB time, Grichuk has accumulated 3,672 innings in center field, and most recently started 17 games at the position with the Rockies in 2023.

Although his role seemingly changed as a member of the Diamondbacks last year, there's no reason to believe the Rays can't utilize his wide range of abilities. At the age of 33, we have confidence that this MLB journeyman could give the Rays meaningful innings at every outfield position.