MLB TRADE TALK: Rays make trade for Oakland catcher

Tampa Bay Rays have made their first trade of the month as they add depth to their behind-the-plate rotation.

The Rays have acquired catcher and infielder Christian Bethancourt from the Oakland A’s and have traded minor leaguers Christian Fernandez and outfield Cal Stevenson as part of the deal.

Bethancourt carries a batting average of .249 has hit four home runs and collected 19 RBIs in 56 games with Oakland who hold a 29-57 record the worst in the American League.

2022 is the 30-year-old’s sixth season in the majors and has started 24 games at first base, 12 at catcher, and eight as the club’s designated hitter.

Starting catcher for the Rays Mike Zunino has been sidelined since June with a shoulder injury.

To make way for Bethancourt the Rays have designated David McKay to make room for the new acquisition. 

Having won the last two AL East Division titles, the Rays have slumped off this season currently sitting third in the division and they occupy a wildcard birth alongside the Boston Red Sox who defeated the New York Yankees 6-5 last night. 

Five wins in their last ten games means they have a 45-39 record and they will be looking to get a winning end to their three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds having lost 5-4 and 2-1 respectively. 

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