The New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays have grown unexpectedly close this offseason, sparking speculation about a potential trade between the division rivals.
After Hurricane Milton severely damaged Tropicana Field, the Rays will play their 2025 home games at George Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees’ Spring Training facility, paying $15 million for the arrangement. With that unusual collaboration underway, attention may soon turn to the possibility of a blockbuster deal.
The Rays recently exercised a $10.5 million club option on second baseman Brandon Lowe, making him their highest-paid player in 2025. However, Tampa Bay’s history of trading players approaching free agency makes Lowe a potential trade chip. Meanwhile, the Yankees, currently without a starting second baseman after Gleyber Torres hit free agency, appear to be a logical landing spot.
Michael Brakebill of FanSided floated a trade scenario that could see the Yankees acquire Lowe to address their infield needs and add a lefty power bat to their lineup. The Yankees, in “win-now” mode after losing the World Series, have the assets to entice the Rays, who could use the opportunity to bolster their farm system.
Lowe, 30, is a proven slugger with a 39-home-run season (2021) and two top-10 MVP finishes, but injuries have limited his availability in recent years. Still, with one additional club option in 2026 worth $11.5 million, he offers an affordable, high-upside solution for New York as they look to stay competitive.
Could this rare partnership between rivals lead to a blockbuster deal? Stay tuned.
