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The Rays have been in need of some offensive production as of late. Good pitching performances by the starting five are being wasted by one and two run losses. A good bat can be the cure but it will obviously come with a price. So who can the Rays willingly give up in exchange for some offensive power?
James Shields.
The veteran has been through the ups and downs of the organization but as his contract nears its end, the Rays may not be able to afford to keep him. Shields has options for 2013 worth $9 million and 2014 worth $12 million. If the 2013 option is not picked up after the season has ended, they can lose him to free agency with any chance of getting something in return gone.
Teams are always in need of pitching, especially veteran pitching. The Anaheim Angels are one who may be intrigued at the possibility of Shields becoming available. Angels veteran ace Dan Haren was placed on the 15-day disabled list with back stiffness. But will the Rays be willing to trade with a potential wild card contender? Who will the Angels offer in return if they are interested?
The rotation behind Shields is full of proven talent and serviceable arms. David Price, Jeremy Hellickson, Jeff Niemann (DL), Alex Cobb (who is filling in for Niemann), Matt Moore, and Chris Archer, who is down in Triple-A Durham, have all proven and displayed the ability to pitch in the majors.
The team has gone through the trade deadline in the past without making any significant deals so if no move is made going into the end of the month, it won’t be surprising. However, if they are in fact looking to get younger and make a run this year, some kind of offensive structure is needed no matter who they trade, if they trade.
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