The Tampa Bay Rays traded Randy Arozarena to the Seattle Mariners for prospects late Thursday night, indicating that the club is retooling beyond 2024. The Rays already shipped out right-handers Aaron Civale and Phil Maton earlier this month. At 52-51, the Rays sit 9 1/2 games back for first in the American League East and four games back from a Wild Card spot. With four days before the trade deadline, the Rays are expected to listen on offers for Yandy Diaz. Per Mark Feinsand, the Houston Astros, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Seattle Mariners are potential landing spots for Diaz.
Rays Listening on Offers for Yandy Diaz
Diaz has been a staple in Tampa Bay’s lineup for the last six seasons. The 32-year-old has received regular playing time at both corner infield positions, delivering strong offense. He led the AL in batting average at .330 in 2023 but Diaz’s production took a hit this season. He has a .273/.329/.396 slash line over 416 plate appearances, yet his 7.5 percent walk rate is far below his career 12.2 percent walk rate. It won’t be cheap to land the All-Star as he has two more years of control left with his club option in 2026. Despite this, the Astros, Pirates and Mariners could use his services for their own reasons. No matter if the Rays trade Diaz or not, they will want significant prospects or players in return.
Houston Astros
Diaz should be someone the Astros are interested in acquiring. His elite hitting would move Jon Singleton into a platoon role off the bench. Diaz playing at first base will give Joey Loperfido more opportunities in the outfield. It would ease the Astros’ option at first base for the next two seasons after the departure of Jose Abreu. Houston did show interest in Diaz’s teammate, Isaac Paredes, another option to cover the infield at multiple positions.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates are 26-19 since June 1 and sit 1 1/2 games back of the San Diego Padres for the final Wild Card spot in the National League. Pittsburgh has a rotation that could give opposing teams headaches in a postseason series if they were to make it. However, the Pirates need more power in their lineup if they want for push for the postseason. Pirates first baseman are hitting .255/.313/.422 compared a .224/.275/.306 slash line at third base. Diaz has shown promise at the plate with a career .288 batting average and .805 OPS.
Seattle Mariners
Could Diaz join his now-former teammate Arozarena in Seattle? The Mariners are looking for a long-term solution at third base and Diaz could fit in. Diaz’s bat along with Arozarena’s, will improve the Mariners lineup, providing a boost in batting average and on-base percentage. His ability to play multiple positions would give the Mariners flexibility in their infield. The Mariners are in contention for first in the AL West, and acquiring Diaz could a move that strengthens their depth.
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