This time, the Rays trade their MVP in Souza

by Gary Shelton on February 21, 2018 · 5 comments

in general, Tampa Bay Rays

Souza is the latest to leave the Rays./CARMEN MANDATO

Souza is the latest to leave the Rays./CARMEN MANDATO

Wednesday, 3 a.m.

Where does it stop? When does it stop?

The Tampa Bay Rays' fire sale continued Tuesday night, and by now, the metaphor of a team on fire seems to fit. The Trop is in flames, and the last guy out should turn off the lights.

This time, the Rays have dealt starting right-fielder Steven Souza, who came in return (roundabout) for Wil Myers, who came in return for James Shields.

 Content beyond this point is for members only.

Already a member? To view the rest of this column, sign in using the handy "Sign In" button located in the upper right corner of the GarySheltonSports.com blog (it's at the far right of the navigation bar under Gary's photo)!

Not a member? It's easy to subscribe so you can view the rest of this column and all other premium content on GarySheltonSports.com.

Souza hit 30 home runs for the Rays last season./JEFFREY S. KING

Souza hit 30 home runs for the Rays last season./JEFFREY S. KING

For a Rays' fan, the off-season has been a series of gut-punches as the team has stripped away its roster.

The Rays have now turned loose of Souza, their MVP from 2017.

And Corey Dickerson, their all-star from 2017.

And Jake Odorizzi, who tied for second on the team win 10 wins.

And Evan Longoria, their face of the franchise.

Souza had improved by the year. True, he could be a bit flighty -- diving for balls that were 10 feet away from him -- but he had developed into an all-hustle player with a little power.

So who is next? Adeiny Hechevarria? Alex Colome? Wilson Ramos? Chris Archer? In return, the Rays got a bunch of prospects, who will help, oh, around 2021 or so.

Can Rays' fans wait?

{ 0 comments… read it below or Subscriptions }

Leave a Comment

Previous post:

Next post: