Rays Pursue Catchers, Show Interest in J.T. Realmuto

The Tampa Bay Rays have been actively exploring options at the catching position, a long-standing area of weakness for the team. Recently, reports indicated that the Rays showed interest in acquiring J.T. Realmuto, a coveted catcher, before he re-signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for three years and $45 million.

Interest in J.T. Realmuto

The Rays seldom make significant moves in the free-agent market. However, they considered Realmuto due to their pressing needs behind the plate. Notably, Realmuto remained available until mid-January, which provided the Rays a window to potentially make an offer.

• Realmuto signed with the Phillies for three years and $45 million.
• His contract averages $15 million annually.

Had the Phillies pursued other catching options, the scenario for Realmuto might have changed, opening the door for the Rays or another team in need of a catcher.

Financial Considerations

The Rays previously secured Zach Eflin with a three-year deal worth $40 million, the largest free-agent contract in the team’s history. This contract was nearly equivalent to Realmuto’s new deal.

Reports suggested a two-year, $30 million deal for Realmuto before he ultimately received a third year from the Phillies.

Other Teams in the Hunt

Aside from Philadelphia, the Boston Red Sox were another team interested in Realmuto. Other organizations like the Texas Rangers, San Francisco Giants, Cincinnati Reds, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Miami Marlins were mentioned, but there were no confirmed efforts from these clubs to secure Realmuto.

Current Rays Roster Dynamics

The Rays have been adjusting their roster, which has included trading or letting go of higher-paid players. Their transactions led to the acquisition of Steven Matz, Cedric Mullins, and Jake Fraley at a combined cost of $25 million.

The team’s projected payroll for the 2026 season is approximately $80.1 million, up slightly from the previous year’s $78.9 million.

Future Catching Options

With Realmuto off the market, the Rays have two catchers, Nick Fortes and Hunter Feduccia, lined up for the upcoming season. Both players joined the organization in July from the Miami Marlins and Los Angeles Dodgers, respectively.

• Fortes has a career batting line of .224/.280/.345 over 1,174 plate appearances.
• Feduccia has limited MLB experience, totaling 119 plate appearances, but has shown promise in the minor leagues.

As the free-agent catching landscape shrinks, Tampa Bay may explore trade opportunities with teams like the Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, or Pittsburgh Pirates, who might offer suitable catching options.

The Rays are keeping options open for improving their catching situation, indicating they may consider a trade if necessary to enhance their roster.