By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: NBC Sports
The Tampa Bay Rays have acquired infielder Brett Wisely and left-handed pitcher Ken Waldichuk from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for a player to be named later or cash considerations.
To make room on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher Osvaldo Bido and infielder Tsung-Che Cheng have been designated for assignment.
Wisely is a utility player. He’s a player who’s versatile and a good defensive infielder. Brett has gotten reps at second base, shortstop, and outfield. Flexibility is one of his strongest assets. He has shown potential with his bat. However, the Rays see him primarily as a defensive weapon.
Sometimes we underestimate how important defense is in baseball. It’s not taken as seriously as basketball and football, but it still needs good outfielders and infielders. The Rays are giving him a chance to shine. Brett must take advantage of this opportunity and, hopefully, find success with the Rays.
Waldichuk is having a rollercoaster career in the pros. He’s having trouble getting more wins than losses. He’s 28 years old, and we’re wondering what the Rays can do to help him change his game. The pitching coach must find something in him on which he can rely on the mound.
Ken is known for his fastball. If he can use other oitches to be effective, then he might redeem himself for the upcoming season.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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