Hopefully this explains our recent obsession with Aybar, we've been waiting on this for a few days...The Rays have traded Jeff Ridgway to the Atlanta Braves for infielders Willy Aybar and Chase Fontaine.
Aybar, 25 when the season begins, didn't play last year due to visa and substance issues, he had wrist surgery in August, but if you'll remember came over to the Braves for Wilson Betemit two years ago. He's a sell low type, but his bat suggests he can become our utility infielder, although he needs to get a look at shortstop in the spring since he's played a total of one game there in the minors.
Fontaine is 22 and a shortstop, if he hits he should be able to stick at six slot, if not he might have to move elsewhere, although that could also come to be if one Mr. Reid Brignac works out. On the positive side he's got power and plate presence. Plus look at him, just look at him:
Ridgway, 27, didn't appear to have too much of a future with the Rays although he was expected to enter camp and compete for a LOOGY spot. If nothing else this just cements the idea of adding another lefty reliever.