THAISS TRADED TO TAMPA BAY
The Tampa Bay Rays acquired catcher Matt Thaiss from the Chicago White Sox for outfielder Dru Baker.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays upgrade their catching depth with the addition of Thaiss. He doesn't offer a ton of offense, but he has some power and can get on base. Thaiss should be the new backup to Danny Jansen, as Ben Rortvedt was really struggling at the plate.
What does it give the Chicago White Sox
The White Sox have several young catchers vying for MLB playing time, so Thaiss wasn't a great fit on the roster. Instead, Chicago brings in Baker, a speedy outfielder drafted by the Rays in 2021. He isn't a highly ranked prospect, but he has stolen as many as 49 bases in a Minor League season. He could still have some potential as he joins his new organization.
Fantasy impact
Thaiss and Baker aren't factors in fantasy baseball, but the departure of Thaiss should open up playing time for Kyle Teel and Edgar Quero in Chicago. Both young catchers have upside on offense, but Teel is especially promising.
