MLB trade rumors: Rays, Tigers discussing Justin Wilson trade

The Rays have shown “legit interest” in Tigers left-hander Justin Wilson and there has been traction in talks, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that the prospect price for Wilson is currently too high for Tampa Bay’s liking, and that the team is considering many relievers.

Wilson, who turns 30 next month, is one of the top relievers available on the trade market and has been linked to the Astros, Nationals, Red Sox and Dodgers in recent days. Detroit is known to be willing to deal the closer, who is under contract for next season, as part of a sale that will likely also include outfielder J.D. Martinez.

Tampa Bay, which currently sits just three games behind the AL East-leading Red Sox, already made one move as a buyer by acquiring shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria from the Marlins late last month. The club is now actively searching for bullpen help, and was reportedly involved in talks for lefty Sean Doolittle before he was traded to the Nationals on Sunday. FOX’s Ken Rosenthal notes that the club is also interested in Phillies reliever Pat Neshek and Pirates lefty Tony Watson.

At this point, it appears Tampa Bay is interested in almost every available reliever but is not close to striking a deal. Wilson, Watson and Neshek are surely among the names to watch over the final two weeks before the deadline.