The offseason has officially begun for the Tampa Bay Rays, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the franchise. With new ownership stepping in, there’s renewed optimism that the team will soon secure a permanent home.
As ownership focuses on the organization’s future location, the front office will turn its attention to strengthening the roster — both for the 2026 season and for the long term. The Rays have long excelled at maintaining competitiveness despite a modest payroll, and that approach is expected to remain a core part of their strategy.
This offseason, the Rays face several important roster decisions, though the foundation for a contending team is already in place for next year. Still, Tampa Bay might choose to trade a few key veterans, a move that could significantly alter those expectations.
In a recent Bleacher Report article, Joel Reuter projected some major trades that could unfold this winter — including a blockbuster deal between the Rays and the Seattle Mariners that would send Brandon Lowe and Yandy Díaz to Seattle.
Trading Both Sluggers Would Hurt Tampa Bay’s Chances to Contend
While Lowe and Diaz are going to be mentioned in trade rumors frequently this winter, dealing them might not be in the best interest of the Rays. This is a team that could contend in 2026, but not if they move these two talented sluggers before the season starts.
If Tampa Bay were to make a trade like this, it would strongly signal that the team isn’t prioritizing contention in 2026. Still, there are potential benefits — most notably, the Mariners’ elite farm system could offer the Rays a substantial return in young talent and prospects.
While bolstering the farm system would strengthen the organization’s long-term outlook, the downside is clear: there are no obvious replacements for either Lowe or Díaz in the current lineup, which could create immediate gaps offensively.
For Seattle, after narrowly missing the American League Championship Series, the focus this offseason will likely be on adding impact bats. Acquiring Lowe and Díaz would represent a major boost to their lineup and position them as stronger contenders for the 2026 season.
Overall, while the Rays should always be listening to offers, Lowe especially feels like a player that they should hold on to this winter. Diaz is a little bit more expendable with the emergence of Jonathan Aranda at first base, but he was one of the best hitters for Tampa Bay last year and losing him would also be a blow.
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