The Tampa Bay Rays' MLB-low payroll doesn't appear to be stopping the team from trying to add big-time talent.
The club was the runner-up in the pursuit of All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel, sources told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The Rays reportedly offered Kimbrel - who is apparently joining the Chicago Cubs - a two-year, $31-million deal, and $39 million over three years.
According to reports, the 31-year-old is set to get a three-year, $43-million contract from the Cubs with an option for a fourth year.
The Rays, who were unwilling to sacrifice a compensatory draft pick for Kimbrel's services, dramatically increased their interest in him once he became an unrestricted free agent, Rosenthal notes, with club officials wanting to reinforce their roster as a result of the team's performance in 2019.
Rosenthal adds that losing out on Kimbrel doesn't mean the Rays will turn to free-agent left-hander Dallas Keuchel, who is reportedly being courted by the division-rival New York Yankees.
Tampa Bay could now ultimately turn to the trade market armed with a stacked farm system that ranks among the best in baseball.
Ken Giles, Shane Green, Will Smith, Alex Colome, and Brad Hand are all high-leverage relievers who might be on the move before the July 31 trade deadline.
