The Rays have added to their core of pitching prospects by acquiring RHP Garrett Fulenchek from the Braves, a decent arm from a decent system, and the cost was merely permission to spend money. The Atlanta Braves are interested in boosting their spending on the international market, and because that is not yet subject to a draft, it is controlled by spending limits. Breaking those limits incur strict penalties that can last two years, something the Rays began suffering this month.
After signing an incredible bat in Adrian Rondon for $2.95M, the Rays will incur the same penalty as the Red Sox for signing struggling Cuban wunderkind Yoan Moncada at a cost of $63M, a two year ban on spending more than $300K per player.