The Tampa Bay Rays have never been known to throw around big money in free agency or blockbuster trades. That’s just not their style.
But make no mistake-this front office is always working angles, and this offseason is no different. They've already shuffled the deck a bit, moving both Brandon and Josh Lowe in separate trades and bringing back some intriguing pieces in return.
Still, there’s one move that continues to loom large over their offseason plans: finding a catcher.
And it’s not just about filling a roster spot-it’s about finally solving a problem that’s lingered for nearly two decades.
According to Ken Rosenthal, the Rays have been actively working the phones in search of a catcher. They even had eyes on J.T.
Realmuto before he re-upped with the Phillies on a three-year, $45 million deal-well beyond Tampa Bay’s typical comfort zone. That pursuit alone says a lot.
Realmuto isn’t just any catcher; he’s one of the best in the game. The Rays knew that, and they still took a swing, which tells you how seriously they’re taking this search.
But the Rays’ issues behind the plate go way back-2008, to be exact. That year, they held the No. 1 overall pick in the MLB Draft and chose Tim Beckham.
Five picks later, the Giants snagged Buster Posey. The rest, as they say, is history.
Posey went on to become a cornerstone of a dynasty in San Francisco, while the Rays have been trying to plug the catcher position ever since.
Since that draft, Tampa Bay has cycled through 14 different starting catchers. That’s not just turnover-that’s a revolving door.
Only Wilson Ramos managed to hold down the job for two straight seasons. Others like Mike Zunino, Danny Jansen, and John Jaso have had moments, but none of them turned into the long-term answer the Rays have been searching for.
This winter, the Rays aren’t just looking for a stopgap. They’re after a catcher who can anchor the position for the foreseeable future-someone who can handle a pitching staff, contribute offensively, and become a fixture in the lineup.
That’s a tall order, especially given the limited financial flexibility the team typically operates with. But it’s a necessary one.
Tampa Bay’s pitching development is among the best in baseball. Year after year, they churn out arms that compete at a high level.
But even the best pitchers need a steady hand behind the plate-someone who can frame, call a game, and control the run game. The Rays know this.
They’ve lived the consequences of not having it.
So as the offseason rolls on, keep an eye on Tampa Bay. They’ve already made a few moves, but the most important one might still be coming. Because if they can finally land a reliable, long-term catcher, it won’t just fill a hole-it might unlock the next level for a team that’s always looking for an edge.