"Slim Chance" Rays Make Any Big Deals

Contrary to popular belief Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com says there's a "slim chance" the Rays make any big trades before July 31.

Furthermore, Rosenthal says.

• The Rays are gauging interest on left-hander Scott Kazmir.
• The Rays trying to compete with the Yankees and Red Sox are being proactive and creative.
• The biggest problem the Rays face is payroll flexibility, which is a major issue when trying to acquire Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee or Victor Martinez.
• Halladay has told several Tampa Bay players that he would waive his no-trade clause to play for the Rays.
• The Blue Jays consider the Rays one of the most attractive suitors for Halladay.
• It's not inconceivable that the Rays would consider trading one of their high payroll players (i.e. Scott Kazmir) to clear space for a big deal.
• Teams often ask about Carl Crawford, but Rosenthal says there is zero percent chance he gets traded.