The Tampa Bay Rays strengthened their catching options by trading for veteran Matt Thaiss from the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, sending minor league outfielder Dru Baker to Chicago. This move aims to add experience behind the plate for Tampa Bay’s roster depth.

Matt Thaiss’s Performance and Career Overview

At 30 years old, Thaiss has played in 35 games for the White Sox this season, recording a .212 batting average with one home run and eight runs batted in. His slugging percentage stands at .294 for the current campaign. Before joining Chicago, Thaiss spent six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and holds a career batting average of .209 across 280 games, contributing 23 homers and 87 RBIs in his major league tenure.

Details on Dru Baker and Recent Injuries

Dru Baker, 25, was performing at a .245 average with one homer and three RBIs over 17 games for Triple-A Durham before being traded. He has been sidelined since April 22 due to an adductor injury. Baker also appeared in six rookie-level games this season, managing just one hit in 15 at-bats. Last year, Baker produced notable speed on the basepaths, stealing 42 bases for Double-A Montgomery while batting .288, though he did not hit any home runs in that period.

Chicago White Sox Roster Moves Following the Trade

The White Sox activated catcher Korey Lee from the 10-day injured list prior to their game against the New York Mets on Tuesday. Lee, 26, had been recovering from a sprained left ankle sustained on April 9 against the Cleveland Guardians. Before the injury, he posted a .333 average with one RBI in nine games this season. In 2023, Lee hit .210 with 12 home runs and 37 RBIs across 125 games.

Tampa Bay’s Roster Adjustment to Accommodate Matt Thaiss

To make room for Thaiss on the 40-man roster, the Rays moved outfielder Jonny DeLuca to the 60-day injured list due to a right shoulder strain. This roster change reflects Tampa Bay’s intent to reinforce their catcher position as the season progresses.

Implications of the Trade for Both Teams

This trade provides the Rays with a seasoned catcher who can contribute depth and familiarity with major league pitching staffs, potentially stabilizing their lineup options. Meanwhile, the White Sox gain a speedy outfield prospect in Baker, adding potential future value once he recovers from injury. The Rays’ flexibility in managing their roster, including DeLuca’s move to the injured list, indicates strategic planning for the remainder of the season.