Austin Slater signed a minor league contract with the Rays after electing free agency following an outright by the Mets. He has moved through four organizations in 2026, including time in Tigers camp and MLB stints with the Marlins and Mets. Slater has appeared in 21 combined games, hitting .209 with one extra-base hit and 15 strikeouts in 49 plate appearances. His recent production has been limited, placing him in a journeyman role after earlier success as a complementary outfielder with the Giants. He has historically performed well against left-handed pitching, while recent results against both handedness have been weaker. He remains an above-average runner and a competent corner defender. The Rays need depth after injuries to Jake Fraley, Jonny DeLuca, and a recent absence from Jacob Melton.
"It's a sensible pickup for a team that has taken a couple hits to an already lackluster outfield over the past week. Jake Fraley and Jonny DeLuca will probably be out into July due to sports hernia surgery and a hamstring strain, respectively. That pushed Victor Mesa Jr. up from Triple-A Durham. Jacob Melton, their only other outfielder on the 40-man roster, hasn't played in a month due to a left ankle sprain."
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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