Blue Jays AL East Recap: Jays fail to gain ground, trade deadline outlooks

Rays seeing positives
Tampa Bay Rays: 38-60

The season for the Tampa Bay Rays is definitely over as Tampa Bay took a 3-4 week. Not all is doom and gloom for the Rays, though. Despite never living up to expectations, the Rays’ primary trade assets have shown some brilliance over the last week.

Both Chris Archer and Jake Odorizzi have proven to be top commodities on an otherwise thin trade market. Despite closer Alex Colome blowing his first save of the season, his arm will also be inquired on as the deadline draws near. With veteran Brad Boxberger‘s rehab stint beginning and going well, they could easily move Colome if the price is right.

Deadline Needs:

The Tampa Bay Rays don’t need to go crazy at the deadline. Inconsistency, not lack of talent, led to their season’s demise. The Rays should be smart about what assets to move and what to hold onto.

Despite reports that Chris Archer was available, it appears more likely that the Rays will try to maximize the value of Odorizzi and Colome and hope to grab some pieces that will help make 2017 a better season for them.

Next: Healthy Pompey could still impact Jays in 2016 race

Final Takeaway:

The Rays have no need to go all in as sellers at the deadline. Despite a rough season, the organization have the talent needed throughout their organization to build a competitive team if handled correctly. Expect shrewd trades with excellent returns as they approach the deadline.