Tampa Bay Rays MLB Trade Rumors: Rob Refsnyder Draws Interest From Team
Looks like the New York Yankees are trying to open a spot on their roster for Didi Gregorius' temporary replacement.
According to the New York Post's George A. King III, the Tampa Bay Rays are interested in acquiring Rob Refsnyder and during Sunday's spring training game against the Rays, the Yankees decided to showcase the versatility of the utility man.
Refsnyder went in during the fifth inning as a left fielder and an inning later he was moved to the right. He went 1-for-1 with a double at bat and he also drew a walk.
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Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Times' Marc Tompkin has reported that the Rays were looking for a "right-handed bat, possibly a shortstop (with Beckham going back to the planned utility role before Duffy's setback) but most likely an outfielder, even better if he can back up in center and has options."
Well, Refsnyder doesn't really play center field, but he should have no problem handling the other positions mentioned by Tompkin. His versatility is his calling card and he should fit in quite well with the Rays if they decide to acquire him.
"With the ability to play first base, second base, third base and multiple outfield positions, the 26-year-old could end up being used all over the diamond, similar to Ben Zobrist of the Cubs," Nicholas Delahanty of Bronx Pinstripes said in his piece.
"Refsnyder is also a very consistent hitter, evidenced by his 0.290 batting average throughout his five-year professional career which includes the minors," he continued.
The Yankees have been dangling Refsnyder as trade bait for weeks now, but they have yet to move him. Fortunately, the Rays are also looking for a player who can fill the utility role for them this offseason.
Refsnyder has been sliding down the depth chart and he's expendable right now because the Yankees need to open a roster spot if they want Pete Kozma to fill in for Gregorius.
