Rays Rumors: 3 Players Not Expected Back Next Season

The Tampa Bay Rays are heading into the offseason set to make some changes. These three players are not expected to be back because of it.

Kevin Kiermaier: The Rays are likely to move on from longtime outfielder Kevin Kiermaier. They found their replacement for him in Jose Siri at the deadline and with the Rays being a small-market club, they will elect to save money. With that Kiermaier's injury trouble and down season make moving on from him seem like the best course of action at this juncture.

Mike Zunino: Mike Zunino is another Ray who had his season cut short, and, unfortunately, that will likely play a role in Tampa moving on from him this offseason. Furthermore, Christian Bethancourt turned out to be a solid addition and is under team control until the end of the 2025 season. Therefore, look for the Rays to let Zunino walk into free agency.

Ji-Man Choi: The Rays are expected to part ways with Ji-Man Choi this offseason - whether that is through trade or not sending him a qualifying offer. Choi's decrease in power is a prime reason for this, as well as him getting closer to being eligible for unrestricted free agency. Thus, Choi's time in Tampa Bay is coming to a close.