The Tampa Bay Rays did something to address the absence of Evan Longoria by acquiring 3B/OF Ryan Roberts from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Earlier in the day the Diamondbacks designated Roberts for assignment.
At the time Roberts said he was told that a trade was imminent. Roberts is hitting .250/.306/.357 batting line over his first 83 games. Roberts hit 19 home runs in 2011. The Rays have used multiple third baseman since Longoria went to the disabled list.
The Diamondbacks will receive minor league infielder Tyler Bortnick who had been playing at Double-A Montgomery, was hitting .253/.352/.385 with four homers and 23 steals in 348 at-bats.
It is likely that Roberts will see regular playing time at third base, at least until Longoria returns.
With the trade deadline fast approaching the rays may be looking to deal other players. James Shields rumors persist, Texas and Los Angeles are interested, although not confirmed by anyone in the Rays organization
