The two trades the Rays made Monday night were technically separate transactions. Viewed together, they represent the complex and conflicting dynamic facing Rays president of baseball operations Erik Neander this week.

After tossing seven strong innings in his last start, Sandy Alcantara's name is back atop deadline wish lists, with USA TODAY Sports' Bob Nightengale reporting that trade interest has soared. The 2022 NL Cy Young winner has struggled this season after missing all of 2024 following Tommy John surgery.

Cardinals listening on Arenado and Gray, getting calls on Donovan. The St. Louis Cardinals are known to be shopping closer Ryan Helsley and setup relievers Steven Matz and Phil Ma

The Pittsburgh Pirates fielding offers for Jack Suwinski might not sound like such a big deal. He's appeared in just 27 games for the Pirates this season and is

The Milwaukee Brewers are reportedly interested in Baltimore Orioles first baseman Ryan O'Hearn after the Danny Jansen trade.

For example, someone wrote somewhat reasonably last week that given the Rays’ history of trading players close to free agency, “someone like Yandy Diaz could be available” and “if he is, sources indicate, he’d be high on the wish list of some Red Sox decision-makers.”

The Marlins on Monday reportedly dealt catcher Nick Fortes to the Rays in exchange for Double-A outfielder Matthew Etzel, sources told MLB.com. The club did not confirm the news. Etzel, who ranked as the Rays' No.