Fri Dec 06 18:20:00 UTC 2024: **Rays Sign Catcher Danny Jansen to One-Year, $8.5 Million Deal**

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a one-year, $8.5 million contract with free agent catcher Danny Jansen, pending a physical, multiple sources reported on December 6th. The deal includes a $500,000 buyout on a mutual option for 2026.

Jansen, 29, spent the majority of his career with the Toronto Blue Jays before a brief stint with the Boston Red Sox this past season. He is considered a rebound candidate after a subpar 2024 season where he hit .206/.308/.348. However, this followed a strong 2021-2023 period (.237/.317/.487), suggesting his 2024 struggles may have been due in part to a wrist fracture suffered during spring training.

In Tampa Bay, Jansen will share catching duties with defensive specialist Ben Rortvedt. The Rays’ catching corps was notably unproductive in 2024, ranking among the league’s worst offensively. Jansen’s signing represents a significant upgrade, even if he only matches his 2024 performance. A return to his earlier form, however, could provide a substantial boost to the Rays’ offense. Defensively, while not considered elite, Jansen is a solid backstop.

The addition of Jansen pushes the Rays’ payroll into the $86 million range. However, this figure could fluctuate significantly, as the team is reportedly fielding trade offers for several veteran players, including Jeffrey Springs, Yandy Diaz, Pete Fairbanks, and Zack Littell. The club’s willingness to spend, even modestly, on Jansen is notable given the recent damage to Tropicana Field and the team’s temporary relocation to a minor league stadium. The move suggests a strategy of balancing payroll with potential trades to acquire younger, more affordable talent.

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