Tampa Bay Rays veteran pitcher Zack Littell is rising as a possible commerce candidate forward of the MLB Commerce Deadline. In an AL season filled with “bubble” contenders, Tampa Bay’s entrance workplace stays savvy. The Rays constantly present their knack for getting low and promoting excessive. Among the many Rays’ commerce property, Zack Littell’s identify is quietly gathering momentum in commerce discussions, as per MLB Community’s Jon Morosi.
Six “bubble” groups within the AL. The Rays have proven they’re in a position to purchase and promote on the similar deadline whereas remaining aggressive; that would put the underrated Zack Littell in play as a rental starter. @MLBNetwork @MLB pic.twitter.com/GERHPs7PPj
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 21, 2025
A dependable mid-rotation arm, Littell boasts a tidy 3.53 ERA throughout 20 begins in 2025, accompanied by elite command, simply 1.8 walks per 9 innings. Whereas he isn’t flashy, he profiles as a reliable No. 3 or 4 starter, making him a super match for groups in want of rotation depth throughout a postseason push. Furthermore, Littell’s sturdy season is starting to attract widespread discover, more and more flagging him as a possible commerce piece.
Notably, the Dodgers are linked as attainable suitors. Particularly, Los Angeles reportedly targets Littell for his economical, innings-eating profile, a low-risk answer for his or her thinned-out pitching corps.
What makes this situation compelling for either side? The Rays are as soon as once more in a “versatile purchaser” mode: able to making deadline strikes whereas sustaining competitiveness. Littell’s contract is modest, $5.72 million on a one-year deal, excellent for a staff searching for short-term stability with out long-term obligations. Rays guru John Rosenthal echoed that if Tampa opts to promote, Littell might nicely be the starter they half with.
On the flip facet, Tampa Bay’s rotation stays deep. The Rays acquired Bryan Baker from the Orioles and anticipate Shane McClanahan’s return quickly. Rising arm Taj Bradley might even grow to be a commerce chip himself. With that form of depth, the Rays might look to creatively deal from their surplus, significantly within the beginning pitching division.
For “bubble” contenders, these hovering simply exterior the Wild Card, the enchantment is evident: add a refined, low-walk mid rotation arm to assist solidify the fifth starter spot. Zack Littell matches that mould completely.
Because the deadline looms, don’t be shocked if Tampa Bay trades Littell. The Rays might capitalize on their monetary flexibility, deep rotation, and his impending free company. It matches the Rays’ MLB Commerce deadline mantra: purchase good, promote good, and above all, win.