Rays Outfielder Could Be Intriguing Offseason Target For Yankees After Solid Season

Should New York consider a trade this offseason with one of its rivals?

The Tampa Bay Rays likely will be dealing away some of their top contributors to lower payroll this offseason and at least one could be a possible fit for the New York Yankees. 

Tampa Bay starter Tyler Glasnow has drawn the most headlines this offseason as it's widely expected that he will be traded. Another player who reportedly could be traded is outfielder Manuel Margot, according to MLB Network's Jon Morosi. 

"Sources: Rays have discussed (outfielder) Manuel Margot in trade talks with multiple teams this month," Morosi said. "Margot, 29, is under contract for 2024, with a team option for 2025. He posted a .839 OPS after returning from the injured list in September."

New York has been linked to Margot in the past so it wouldn't be too surprising if the Yankees and Rays came together to discuss a deal again. The Yankees need to add outfield help this offseason and likely will be looking to add two into the mix. New York has been linked to Chicago Cubs star Cody Bellinger and four-time Gold Glove Award winner Kevin Kiermaier but will face stiff competition. The position-player free-agent market is very thin this offseason so New York will have plenty of competition.

Margot is an intriguing name to watch out for. He is 29 years old and has spent the last four seasons with the Rays. He dealt with some injuries in 2023 and only appeared in 99 games but would've been an upgrade for the Yankees as he hit four home runs, drove in 38 runs, and slashed .264/.310/.376 while also providing solid defense. He will make just $10 million in 2024 and has a mutual option of $12 million for the 2025 season.

New York certainly could afford him if it saw fit. Be on the lookout for Margot for a possible trade shortly.