MLB Rumors: Rays Interested In Star Third Baseman

According to Marc Topkin, the Tampa Bay Rays are expressing interest in Oakland Athletics third baseman Matt Chapman.

The A's have already begun their major fire sale, as they have traded Chris Bassitt and Matt Olson since the lockout was lifted. Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas are getting a lot of interest around the league and could be moved at any moment. Now, Chapman should be added to that list, and it's certainly possible Tampa could complete the blockbuster.

The Rays have already joined the Freddie Freeman sweepstakes, so it is clear that they are not afraid to spend money this offseason. This certainly goes against what they are known for, as they of course are a notorious low-budget club.

Chapman would be a marvelous addition to the Rays, though. He did have a down year in 2021, however, as he sported a .210 batting average. However, he also was still effective when it came to his power numbers, as he had 27 home runs and 72 RBIs.

Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if the three-time Gold Glove winner and constant power threat is a Ray before Opening Day.