Rays Expressing Interest in Pair of Slugging Padres Outfielders Ahead of Trade Deadline
By Parker White
Every contending team is in search of pitching, whether that be in the rotation or bullpen, and the Tampa Bay Rays are no different.
However, it seems they might be prioritizing a few acquisitions on the other side of the ball, too.
According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the Rays are also interested in two slugging outfielders from the San Diego Padres, Hunter Renfroe and Franmil Reyes.
Among many teams #Rays are engaged with, heard of interest in #Padres OFs Hunter Renfroe and Franmil Reyes, both RH hitters with big power. Would think #Padres would prefer to move Renfroe.
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) July 30, 2019
Tampa Bay could use an offensive upgrade in their outfield, especially a right-handed slugger. Both Renfroe and Reyes fit what they are looking for, but it would come at a high price tag, considering they are both young, controllable players.
Rays Showing Interest In Padres Outfielders https://t.co/I2CEVXDQdc pic.twitter.com/J4YKHzWnZd
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) July 30, 2019
San Diego has a gluttony of outfielders, so it wouldn't be shocking if they moved one of them to augment their team or minor league system in another way.
Both Renfroe and Reyes have similar skillsets, and they mash the baseball. Renfroe leads the team with 29 home runs to go along with 58 RBI and a .563 slugging percentage, while Reyes has belted 27 long balls with 46 RBI and a .535 slugging percentage.
Neither one is a full-time player, so it might be best if the Padres move one of them to clear space for the other, while adding more young talent. Both of these organizations operate very similarly. Feels like a perfect match.