MLB Rumors: Rays To Trade Star Outfielder

Austin Meadows is likely to be traded once the lockout is over, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. He also noted the same for Kevin Kiermaier, but his name has been dominating the rumor mill for quite some time. Thus, let's focus solely on Meadows. 

The Rays are known for trading players away due to their small budget. Meadows is eligible for unrestricted free agency after the 2024 season, so there isn't necessarily too much of a rush to move him. However, his trade value is also quite high due to this, so Tampa Bay could look to take advantage of this shortly. 

Since being famously traded from the Pittsburgh Pirates to the Rays, Meadows has had accomplished a lot. His 2019 season is particularly important to note, as he had 33 home runs, 89 RBIs, and a .291 batting average. He naturally was named an All-Star that campaign, too. He followed that up with a rough 2020 season but bounced back well in 2021. In 142 games with the Rays this past season, he had 27 home runs, 106 RBIs (career-high), and a .234 batting average. Although he struggled to hit for contact, the power was still there.

With Meadows still being 26 years old and the Rays having control over him for a few more years, one could argue that they should wait to move him. He certainly has proved to be an effective power hitter at the major league level, and the Rays are still a very good team. However, we will have to wait and see what they decide to do. 

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