Tampa Bay Rays Have Discussed Possible Trade of Starting OF with Two Teams

According to reports, the Tampa Bay Rays have discussed a possible trade of starting outfielder Manuel Margot with the New York Yankees and the New York Mets.

We heard earlier this week that the Tampa Bay Rays were shopping starting outfielder Manuel Margot this offseason.

Now, we know that they've talked to the New York Yankees and the New York Mets about a possible deal.

Per Ken Rosenthal of 'The Athletic.'

The Yankees, seeking to add both a center fielder and left fielder, have engaged the Rays in multiple conversations this offseason about Manuel Margot, according to sources briefed on the talks but not authorized to speak publicly. The Rays are speaking to other teams about Margot as well.

Joel Sherman of the 'New York Post' had the report on the Mets' interest:

The Yankees and Mets are among at least five teams that have inquired on Rays outfielder Manuel Margot, one of the players most likely to be traded this offseason.

Margot is due $10 million in 2024 and provides solid speed and good defense. He doesn't hit for much power, but Margot can provide a lineup with a good contact hitter as well.

Though he missed time with injury this year, he ended up hitting .264. He had four home runs and 38 RBI, while also stealing nine bases.

He's played eight years in the big leagues with the Padres and Rays and is a lifetime .255 hitter with 52 homers and 91 steals.

He was a former top prospect of the Boston Red Sox who was traded to San Diego prior to the start of his major league career.

A potential trade of Margot or ace Tyler Glasnow are just one of many questions facing the Rays this offseason. After losing in the wild card round of the playoffs in 2023, they also don't know what the situation is with star shortstop Wander Franco, who is still under MLB investigation.

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