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To make room on the 40-man roster for Wilson Ramos, the Rays designated Justin O’Conner for assignment. O’Conner was said to be a top defensive catching prospect, but his bat lagged behind. And now, according to Topkin, injuries seem to be playing a role in the Rays fallen expectations for him.
In announcing DFA of once top C prospect O'Conner, #Rays reveal he underwent 2 back surgeries this off-season, so that explains things a bit
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) December 12, 2016
On the injury front, some good news from Ramos.
#Rays Wilson Ramos said on conference call rehab is ahead of schedule and hopes to join team as early as May
— Neil Solondz (@neilsolondz) December 12, 2016
The goal is for him to catch, but even if he can’t immediately, this would be a good sign.
#Rays Ramos said he could first return as DH before resuming catching
— Neil Solondz (@neilsolondz) December 12, 2016
Links
- With top relievers getting top dollar, Alex Colome becomes an interesting trade target for teams. On the other hand, it means that a top bullpen is hard to build through the open market now, so the Rays may instead want to hold on to what they’ve got and sell elsewhere.
- Eno Sarris talks spray angles. It’s not only the vertical launch angle that matters.
- Good piece by Eil Ben-Porat on scouting power in the minor leagues.
- Russell Carleton wrote about team chemisty. He’s a professional on that type of thing, so worth a read.