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Zach Pressnell is a Newsweek contributor based in Columbus, Ohio. His focus is MLB content. He has an extensive knowledge of professional baseball and all things that come with it after working closely with the sport for years. Zach has been with Newsweek since November 2024 and previously worked at FanSided and OnSI. He is a graduate of Bethany College (WV). You can get in touch with Zach by emailing z.pressnell@newsweek.com.
Contributing Sports Writer
Yandy Diaz is one of the more intriguing trade candidates in the league this offseason. The Tampa Bay Rays infielder is set to earn $10 million this season with a $12 million club option for 2026.
Tampa Bay traded a few pieces away last season, so what's the hold up with Diaz? He could be moved ahead of the 2025 MLB trade deadline.
Bleacher Report's Zachary Rymer recently linked the Cincinnati Reds, San Francisco Giants, and Seattle Mariners to a blockbuster trade for Diaz.
"The Rays nonetheless face a hard road to the playoffs in 2025. And unless it gets easier—the AL East isn't likely to play along—they're likely to be sellers once again," Rymer wrote. "After winning the AL batting title with a .330 average in 2023, Díaz's performance slipped in 2024. And given his tremendous size, it's frustrating that he's not more of a slugger.
"Still, last year's slip was mostly related to a slow start. After hitting just .211 through May 1, Díaz hit an even .300 the rest of the way. He was basically his usual self for five of the season's six months. Though their profiles are similar, Díaz will be a better option than (Luis) Arraez if they're both out there. Even if he doesn't have a lot of power, Díaz at least has some power."
The Reds likely aren't in the market for another infielder unless they suffer some injuries. They already traded Jonathan India to the Kansas City Royals to clear up the logjam in the infield.
The Giants and Mariners could both look to add a first baseman though. Diaz would fit in quite well at the top of either lineup. If he can return to 2023 form, he would be a steal for the prospect capital it would take to land him.
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