It had to happen sooner or later, but the trade market for the Tampa Bay Rays James Shields may be beginning to take shape.
Danny Knobler is reporting that the Rays are suggesting two teams that they are willing to trade Shields.
However, the move would not signal the Rays throwing in the towel on this year.
Yesterday and has given up double-digit hits in his last four starts.
Apparently, that isn’t a concern for some. “He’ll be fine,” one scout said. “To me, he just needs a different environment.”
The Rays are traditionally tight-lipped when it comes to trade talk and have a no comment policy. However, trading Shields could make some sense for the Rays.
The strength of the rays is starting pitching. Jeff Niemann is due back off the disabled list and Chris Archer could replace Shields and join David Price, Jeremy Hellickson, Alex Cobb and Matt Moore in the rotation were it to become necessary
Shields will make $7 million this year, and has a $9 million option for 2013. Shields is a very durable starter having pitched 200+ innings for the last five years in a row.
Offensively the Rays have been woeful and if they want to compete for the rest of the summer, they may feel compelled to make a move with Shields.
Evan Longoria isn’t expected back until late July or early August. Matt Joyce is scheduled to return to the team midweek.
The Rays may be in better position to determine which direction they are going to go after they finish their current homestand.
