4 pitching trade targets for the Rays, including 1 big stretch goal

Rays pitching trade target: Lance Lynn (White Sox)

Lance Lynn is probably one of the most well known pitchers presumably on the market, stemming from both his longevity and his relatively recent success. He was a Cy Young finalist in 2021, and despite mixed results this year, he has put up some elite performances including a 16 strikeout outing versus the Mariners.

Lynn is having a career best season in terms of strikeout rate, as he has struck out around 11 batters per nine. The challenge for the Rays if they were to acquire him is whether or not he can temper the long ball. His signature fastballs are generating whiffs at a great rate, but as per Baseball Savant, his barrel rate is in the fourteenth percentile. A high quantity of barrelled-up balls means a high quantity of extra-base hits, especially home runs.

It feels almost certain that Lynn will be dealt, as the White Sox look to be one of the most prolific sellers in the offseason. The Rays have actually been reported to be interested in him, and when the price comes down, they will call again.