Rays Face Catcher Conundrum as Matt Thaiss Pursues Free Agency
The Tampa Bay Rays are navigating a pivotal offseason, particularly in their pursuit of a new catcher. With veteran backstop Matt Thaiss choosing to explore free agency, the team’s depth at this crucial position has been notably diminished.
Shifting Dynamics Behind the Plate
President of baseball operations Erik Neander has made it clear that enhancing the catching position is a priority for the Rays as they look to bolster their roster. Currently, the only catchers on the 40-man roster are Nick Fortes and Hunter Feduccia, both of whom joined the organization in trades prior to the MLB deadline in July. Fortes was acquired from the Miami Marlins, while Feduccia came over in a three-team deal that also saw catcher Ben Rortvedt land with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
As the offseason unfolds, the Rays will be keeping a close eye on the free-agent market, particularly with Danny Jansen available for a potential return to Tampa Bay. Meanwhile, veteran J.T. Realmuto stands out as the top catcher on the market, drawing interest from multiple teams.
Matt Thaiss Moves On
The decision by Thaiss to leave the Rays has left a noticeable gap in organizational depth. The former first-round pick, selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 2016 MLB Draft, has faced challenges in meeting the high expectations that come with such a selection. Now 30 years old, Thaiss is set to seek new opportunities across the league after appearing in 25 games with Tampa Bay last season.
In those games, he registered 80 plate appearances, posting a .225/.304/.282 batting line that included two doubles and a triple. His journey with the Rays began when he was traded from the Chicago White Sox, where he had compiled a 1.1 bWAR over just 35 games. Much of Thaiss’s value stems from his defensive prowess; he ranked in the 80th percentile in MLB with a +5 Blocks Above Average and finished 19th among catchers with +3 Defensive Runs Saved.
Looking Ahead
As the Rays look to solidify their catching situation, they must evaluate their options carefully. The potential addition of Dominic Keegan, who is eligible for the Rule 5 Draft, will also factor into their decision-making. The organization’s commitment to protecting him on the 40-man roster will indicate how highly they value the young prospect.
With the offseason in full swing, all eyes will be on Tampa Bay as they seek to fill the void left by Thaiss and enhance their depth behind the plate. The Rays have a solid foundation to build upon, but addressing the catching position will be key to their success in the upcoming season.
