The Tampa Bay Rays' fantastic postseason run ended with their Game 5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers in the World Series. Now, after losing in the World Series, it would not be surprising if the Rays aggressively look to strengthen their roster. Because of this, they are now urged to trade for one of baseball's top superstars in what would be a massive blockbuster.
In a recent article for Bleacher Report, Zachary D. Rymer urged the Rays to trade shortstop Grady Emerson, catcher Caden Bodine, and pitcher Brody Hopkins to the Reds in exchange for superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz. With the Rays being in their contention window, it would make sense if they made a bold move for a top talent like De La Cruz.
He would give them another high-impact player for the front half of their lineup and could be the final piece of the puzzle that helps Tampa Bay win it all next season if acquired. De La Cruz is also under team control until the end of the 2029 season. Thus, he would be a long-term addition for the Rays if brought in, which only adds to his appeal.
In 143 games this season with the Reds, De La Cruz recorded 30 home runs, 30 stolen bases, and a .283 batting average. With numbers like these, he would be a game-changing pickup for a contender like the Rays. While trading two top prospects, Emerson and Bodine, and a pitcher like Hopkins would be a lot for the Rays to give up, it would be worth it to land a superstar talent like De La Cruz.
It will be interesting to see if Tampa Bay pursues him this offseason because of it from here.
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