RAYS, M'S SWAP FIVE PLAYERS
The Tampa Bay Rays acquired catcher Mike Zunino, outfielder Guillermo Heredia and pitcher Michael Plassmeyer from the Seattle Mariners for outfielders Mallex Smith and Jake Fraley.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays significantly upgrade the catching position with this move, as Zunino is expected to take over as the everyday receiver for the Rays in 2019. While he does not hit for a high average, Zunino should provide the Tampa Bay lineup with a little added home-run power next season. Heredia will likely serve the role of fourth outfielder with the Rays (the same role Smith served in 2018), while Plassmeyer is an intriguing left-handed pitching prospect for the future. This was a strong deal for the Rays.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
In what is expected to be the first of several trades to shake up the Mariners' roster in what appears to be a rebuilding scenario, Seattle at least received a solid player in return here in the speedy Smith. The left-handed batter is likely to become the Mariners' new center-fielder and possible leadoff man (depending on what happens with veteran Dee Gordon this off-season). Fraley is another outfielder with a little upside. The trade does leave Seattle with a hole behind the plate, however.
Fantasy impact
Zunino's stock may rise dramatically by leaving Seattle for Tampa Bay. Playing a position of fantasy weakness (catcher), he could become a breakthrough candidate in 2019. Smith's playing time should go up in Seattle, as he will no longer be blocked by Kevin Kiermaier in centerfield. Therefore, Smith's fantasy stock is also rising after this trade. Heredia's value is negligible as he will likely continue to play the role of fourth outfielder. Plassmeyer has a lot of upside for keeper leagues, so he should now be on the fantasy radar in all keeper formats. As for Fraley, he might become a fantasy factor down the road (but not right away).
