Rays consider shortstop trade options as deadline approaches

The Tampa Bay Rays are evaluating trade options for a shortstop as the MLB deadline approaches. Currently sitting atop the AL East, the Rays are interested in players like Zach Neto of the Los Angeles Angels. However, they face a dilemma due to the elite defensive skills of Taylor Walls, who leads all shortstops in defensive runs saved since his debut in 2021. The team may need to prioritize high-quality defense in any potential trade, making it difficult to find an upgrade without sacrificing Walls' contributions. Otto Lopez of the Miami Marlins emerges as a potential target with both offensive capability and solid defense.

• 4:32 PMYahoo Sports — Rays face tricky Taylor Walls problem with shortstop trade interest