Tampa Bay Rays Target Jonah Heim for Catcher Upgrade
As the offseason approaches, the Tampa Bay Rays find themselves grappling with several roster needs that require immediate attention. Known for their tight financial approach, it’s unlikely that the new ownership group will drastically alter the team’s spending habits this winter. While the rest of the American League East may be ready to open their wallets, the Rays are expected to maintain their prudent strategy, focusing on smart acquisitions rather than splurging.
Catcher Position in Need of Attention
One critical area where the Rays are seeking improvement is at catcher. Currently, their 40-man roster includes only Hunter Feduccia, Nick Fortes, and Dominic Keegan. While Keegan is regarded as a promising prospect, he has yet to make his Major League debut. Both Feduccia and Fortes were brought in through trades last season, yet the Rays are actively exploring options to bolster this position.
Jonah Heim Emerges as a Potential Fit
Among the candidates being considered is Jonah Heim, who recently entered free agency after being non-tendered by the Texas Rangers. Recognized as a potential landing spot for Heim, the Rays could benefit from his experience and skill set. However, there are some concerns regarding his performance. Over the past two seasons, he has experienced a decline at the plate, posting a .602 OPS, and his defensive metrics have also taken a hit.
Despite these setbacks, Heim’s previous accolades cannot be overlooked. In 2023, he delivered a solid performance, achieving a 3.1 bWAR, a .755 OPS, and earning a spot on the American League All-Star Team. His offensive production reached career highs in several categories, including doubles (28), home runs (18), and runs batted in (95). Additionally, Heim was awarded the Gold Glove, showcasing his defensive prowess.
Durability and Potential for Revival
At nearly 31 years old next June, the question remains whether Heim can return to his previous form. His last couple of seasons have not been impressive across the board, but one advantage he offers is his durability. Heim has consistently demonstrated the ability to handle the rigors of catching, often playing over 100 games a season.
Moving away from the Rangers, where he struggled with a .204/.266/.282 slash line at Globe Life Field, might rejuvenate his performance. On the road, his stats improved to .220/.275/.374—numbers that, while not stellar, could still make him a viable option behind the plate.
Future Considerations for the Rays
The Rays face an important decision regarding how much of an upgrade Heim would truly represent over Feduccia and Fortes. Both players are seen as temporary solutions until Keegan is ready to step into a significant role at the Major League level. As the offseason unfolds, keeping a close eye on Heim’s trajectory could prove beneficial for the Rays as they seek to solidify their catching position and enhance their roster for the upcoming season.
