Tampa Bay Rays Sign Veteran Outfielder

Headed to Tampa Bay.

Outfielder Ben Gamel is set to join the Tampa Bay Rays on a minor-league deal pending a physical, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.

The deal also includes an invite to spring training, where Gamel will have the opportunity to prove himself and compete for a spot on the Opening Day roster.

#Rays are finalizing a deal to sign OF Ben Gamel to a minor-league deal, pending a physical. Lefty hitter, has played parts of 7 seasons in majors, last year with #Pirates. Boosts camp roster to 81.

— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) February 22, 2023

Gamel spent the 2022 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, batting .232 with nine home runs, 46 RBIs, 42 runs scored, and five stolen bases in 115 games. Although he hasn't been able to replicate the success he had earlier in his career with the Seattle Mariners, Gamel is known for his defensive prowess and will bring that skill to the Rays this spring.

Gamel will be in contention with Luke Raley and Josh Lowe for a left-handed bench bat spot on the team.

Raley, who is out of options, is likely to have the edge, while Lowe may only make the team if significant playing time is available for him. Overall, the addition of Gamel to the Rays' spring training roster adds depth and competition to the team's outfield and bench options.

Over his seven-year career, the thirty-year-old holds a .253/.333/.385 triple-slash line, with 40 home runs, 198 RBIs, 21 stolen bases and 259 runs scored across 679 games. Photo Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports