MLB rumors: The most aggressive team ahead of trade deadline, per Nightengale

The Major League Baseball trade deadline is fast approaching, and teams are already making moves. Ahead of the deadline, USA Today columnist Bob Nightengale spoke with several general managers and executives around the league. He is revealing some of what he learned in those conversations.

“They are convinced that the Tampa Bay Rays will be the most aggressive team at the deadline, knowing just how wide-open the American League is this year. Get into the dance, and you might be the last one at your party,” Nightengale wrote for USA Today.

Tampa Bay has been one of baseball’s biggest surprises this year. The Rays are first in the American League East, with a 64-45 record. The club has a two and a half game lead over the New York Yankees in that division.

Tampa Bay is understandably looking to add talent, to make sure other clubs don’t catch up. Not only are the Yankees on their heels, but so are the Boston Red Sox. Boston is one of the hottest teams in baseball this summer.

The Rays have been linked to pitching ahead of the deadline, with multiple MLB insiders saying the club wants to make a deal for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller has also been linked to the Rays, in recent reports, if Miller is indeed traded.

The team is also reportedly searching for a hitter that can make a massive impact.

“This is far and away the No. 1 need for Tampa Bay. Outside of Junior Caminero, Yandy Diaz and Jonathan Aranda, offensive production has not been as consistent as the team would have liked,” Sports Illustrated reported.

Tampa Bay is in action on Saturday against the Chicago White Sox. The Rays have won seven of their last 10 games. The MLB trade deadline is on Monday.

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