MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 potential teams for Matt Wieters

4. Tampa Bay Rays

Speaking of dismal catching situations, the Rays perhaps have one of the worst in either league. So their reported interest in free agent Jason Castro is not surprising, but with multiple other teams in the mix it’s unlikely Tampa Bay can compete financially with a multi-year contract offer.

Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times has reported a suggestion from Castro’s agent that he Rays have made and offer and are “right in the thick of things” for his client. Still, if all other things are equal, it’s hard to imagine Castro giving serious consideration to Tampa Bay.

The Rays are surely very familiar with Wieters, for better or worse, after playing against him in the American League East for a number of years. His career numbers at Tropicana Field are pretty solid too, with a .319/.363/.435 slash-line, five home runs and 17 RBI (118 OPS+) over 204 plate appearances (51 games), but I’m guessing Tampa Bay’s front office is already aware of that.

Depending on how Wieters and his representation views his market value, the Rays will quickly be dismissed or embraced as a potential suitor. But they should be prepared to make a reasonable offer, no matter what.