From 2019 to 2023, the Tampa Bay Rays were a consistent postseason team. While they did not have the star power that a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers has now, they made do with what they had and were a scrappy club.
However, it has now been two seasons since the Rays last made the postseason. They are coming off two years of losing records, and there is a good possibility they could see another losing record in 2026.
Tampa Bay got rid of some key contributors so far this winter. They will come into the new season without Shane Baz, Brandon Lowe, and Josh Lowe. But, they were able to strike deals with Cedric Mullins, Steven Matz, and recently acquired Gavin Lux and Jacob Melton in a trade.
MORE: Rays land former Dodgers standout in trade: How Gavin Lux can help Tampa Bay
Rays slugger could be an intriguing trade piece for teams looking for power
All in all, some of the teams in the AL East have gotten much better, while the question is still out on the Rays' winter moves. With not much hope going into the new season, it could benefit the club to look at parting ways with some of its best players.
Yandy Diaz is considered one of Tampa Bay's best, and for good reason. The corner infielder has immense power at the plate and is a threat every time he steps in the box.
Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller tags him as the most available first baseman on the trade market.
"If there's one rule of thumb when it comes to the Rays, it's that any player with an eight-figure salary is automatically on the trade block. Even if the Rays aren't the aggressors in initiating the conversations about Diaz, they would almost certainly entertain any offers that come their way."
The Rays have a history of moving on from players who could get them a good return. Diaz is the best option for them, so fans will want to keep a close eye on this.
The Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres are ones to watch out for here. They have corner infield needs that they are starting to run out of time trying to fill.
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