The MLB trade deadline is quickly approaching, and the rumors are beginning to heat up. Teams have until Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. ET, after which the deadline passes and no more trades can be made. A handful of players are garnering attention, including Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers.
The 29-year-old made his debut back in 2020 but is just now having a breakout season. He's appeared in 42 games, accumulating 27 runs scored, 40 hits, eight home runs and 31 RBIs in 139 at-bats. He is also slashing .288/.401/.540 for a .941 OPS.
In his final year of team control, the Twins, who are 49-51 and two games back from a wild card spot, could look to move the backstop. Several teams are doing their homework, including the Tampa Bay Rays.
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On Monday, USA Today's Bob Nightengale reports that the Rays, along with the Yankees, had scouts in attendance during the Twins' three-game series against the Chicago Cubs.
"Scouts from the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays were at Wrigley Field over the weekend to closely watch Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers," Nightengale wrote.
It's not much of a surprise that the Rays are showing interest in Jeffers. Nick Fortes has gotten the bulk of the work but has just a .631 OPS in 213 at-bats. Hunter Feduccia has been the Rays' other option, but in 126 at-bats has a .643 OPS.
Of course, Tampa Bay is looking to do whatever it can to stay ahead in the American League East. After a five-game losing streak, the Rays are 56-42 and just 1.5 games ahead of the Yankees (55-44).
As the trade deadline draws closer, Jeffers has become one of the most intriguing names on the market. With the Yankees and Rays both looking for catching help, it could become a bidding war between the AL East rivals.
