Update: As expected, BJ Upton has turned down the Rays $13.3 MM qualifying offer. According to MLB Trade Rumors, “With Upton turning down the one-year, $13.3 MM offer, the Rays will now receive a compensatory draft pick if Upton signs with another team as a free agent. It was no surprise that Upton declined the offer and it seems as if it’s as equally a foregone conclusion that he will leave Tampa Bay, as the Rays can’t afford the expensive, multiyear contract that Upton will surely command on the open market.” Ironically, another Upton has been mentioned as a potential replacement, current Arizona Diamondbacks out-fielder Justin Upton.”
Like his brother, Justin Upton, 25, has been mentioned as trade fodder for the last couple of seasons. Upton is a dynamic hitter with a career .832 OPS. He also comes with a fairly reasonable contract, in line to make $9.75 MM in 2013, $14.25 MM in 2014, and $14.5 MM in 2015. It’s been speculated that James Shields, Jeremy Hellickson or David Price would have to be dealt in order to obtain the younger Upton, though it’s doubtful that Price will be going anywhere before the start of the 2014 season. Let the rumors fly.
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Just a few nuggets of information, lovingly bundled together for you in one handy piece.
First, the Rays have extended a qualifying offer to BJ Upton for a one year, $13.3 MM contract. Under the new MLB rule, Upton has a week to decide whether to sign or not. If (and when) Upton signs with another team, the Rays will receive a compensatory draft pick, as per the latest collective bargaining agreement. The Dodgers, Phillies, and Nationals all have rumored interest in Upton.
Also, Tampa Bay has reinstated C Robinson Chirinos and OF Brandon Guyer from the 60-day DL. They’ve also added Frank De Los Santos to the 40-man roster. Chirinos missed the entire 2012 season, following a concussion incurred at the end of Spring Training. Guyer missed the majority of the 2012 season after an injury which preceded shoulder surgery.
Finally, below is a picture that speaks a thousand words. The Rays pitching staff really did rewrite the record books in 2012! For once I’m not speaking in hyperbole.
