B.J. Upton is still a Ray. James Shields is still a Ray. Jeff Niemann and Wade Davis are still Rays. Casey Kotchman and Johnny Damon are still Rays. Even Kyle Farnsworth is still a Ray.
(Roy Betancourt / IOS / PR Photos)
I can only assume the Rays didn’t make any deadline deals because the process said each was a bad move. I didn’t look at the deals to see if we’d have wanted what was offered but, I don’t think that is the point.
It is important to note that I shouldn’t complain about “the process” at the deadline while simultaneously celebrating it all winter. But, I can’t help but wonder whether ownership had a finger on the scale here.
There are a lot of good reasons to move BJ and Shields or least Davis or Niemann. But, it is at least reasonable to assume that the Rays were skittish about dealing popular players shortly after re-opening the stadium debate. They know, of course, that all those players can be traded during the winter. And they know that winter trades are much easier for fans to stomach because they don’t see the immediate changes.
So, that begs the question. Did the Rays put aside some short-term value in the name of public appearance? If they did, was that the right move?
I truly don’t believe that they are considering that fan experience here. Not because they don’t care (even if they actually don’t) but like you said, because from a business perspective they didn’t get what they wanted.
It is what we love and hate about the front office. They make business decisions because they are professionals and not fans.
I doubt they thought about the fans. Although you make a good point, so maybe they should have. Either way, same result.
My take: Why not wait and hope for a strong end to the season to at least make a run at the wild card. Build up some excitement for next year, or even make the playoffs this year (I know, I’m a proud homer). Nothing that was offered blew them away (I hope), so they can probably get equal or better value in the winter anyway (bigger market, not just buyers).
To be honest, Damon/Farns/kotch not leaving surprised me more than anything. Especially Damon and Kotch. Have to assume they felt that better returns would come in the winter when, as Clyde notes, many more bidders will be involved. I guess we can hope for a monster finish for niemann, to deal him this winter. Other than that, it’s been fun watching Des everyday.
The good news is, this team as currently constructed is still fun to watch.