ESPN.com · Nov 15, 2017
Rumor Central: Rays renew interest in Jose Bautista?
The Tampa Bay Rays reportedly remain steadfast in their pursuit of Jose Bautista.
According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Rays have renewed interest in the veteran slugger after the sides also had discussions last winter.
Bautista's agent Jay Alou told Morosi that his client is open to playing different positions, including the corner infield, corner outfield or designated hitter.
The 37-year-old slashed just .203/.308/.366 with 23 home runs and 65 RBIs across 686 plate appearances last season for the Toronto Blue Jays. Bautista's batting average and slugging percentage were his lowest in eight years, although he cranked one more long ball than he did in 2016.