ST. PETERSBURG -- The Hot Stove season means rumors come and go. For the Rays, one that persists involves free-agent shortstop Ian Desmond.
According to a report by Chris Cotillo of MLB Daily Dish, a source confirmed that the Rays have interest in Desmond, but having to give up their first-round pick -- 13th overall in this year's Draft -- could be a deal breaker.
The Rays have not confirmed interest in Desmond.
Desmond rejected the Nationals' $15.8 million qualifying offer, which means a pick would be sent the Nationals' way from the team signing Desmond.