Predicting the Rays first offseason trade

Forecasting any MLB team's decision, whether it's via trade or free agency, is complicated to say the least. There are an abundance of moving parts from contract details to team needs that determine any individual trade or signing.

In this article, we're going to breakdown a possible offseason trade for your Tampa Bay Rays. You may agree with the prediction or flat-out loathe the thought of it. We're here for any and all reactions as the Rays plunge into this year's edition of the offseason.

Tigers receive: 1B Yandy Diaz
Rays receive: C Dillon Dingler, OF Justice Bigbie (Tigers No. 21 prospect)

In this mock trade, we've predicted that 26-year old catcher, Dillon Dingler could be an output if the Rays deal Yandy Diaz to the Tigers. There are a few reasons for this speculation.

First of all, the Tigers are in desperate need of a consistent first baseman and Yandy Diaz fits that description almost perfectly. Diaz has hit at least .280 over the last three seasons including a AL-leading .330 batting average in 2023.

Secondly, this young catcher has loads of potential and a lot to be excited about. Dingler appeared in 27 games to finish out the 2024 season and recorded a .167 average. These low numbers don't show us the true ability of the Ohio State product as he was a dominant force with Triple-A Toledo. As a member of the Mud Hens, Dingler slashed .308/.379/.559 in 71 games. Those offensive stats are very impressive coming from a minor league catcher.

The other player that the Rays would acquire in this particular mock trade is Tigers top prospect, Justice Bigbie. Bigbie is ranked No. 21 in the Tigers organization after hitting .248 and driving in 50 runs last season with Triple-A Toledo. The former 19th round pick had a breakout year in 2023 as he produced a .343 AVG with 19 HRs across three different minor league clubs. The ceiling for this young phenom could be very high and he would be a great additional piece in an offseason trade.

Lastly, the Rays would see the departure of their incredibly consistent first baseman. Yandy Diaz has not only been the best hitter for the Rays over the past three seasons, but he's also been a top three offensive first baseman in the entire MLB.

According to Fangraphs, there is only one first baseman with a better batting average since 2020 and he was the unanimous 2024 World Series MVP. Freddie Freeman has a combined .313 AVG which is just above Diaz's .292 clip. Needless to say, the elite infielder will be greatly missed, but if the Rays can build for their future, it might be the right time to let him go.