LUPLOW LANDS IN TAMPA BAY
The Tampa Bay Rays acquired pitcher DJ Johnson and first baseman Jordan Luplow from the Cleveland Indians for pitcher Peyton Battenfield.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
Luplow, who just returned from injury, will provide depth in what is now a crowded Tampa Bay outfield (Kevin Kiermaier; Randy Arozarena; Manuel Margo; Austin Meadows; Brett Phillips and now Luplow). With Nelson Cruz added as the regular DH, Luplow's playing time may be limited down the stretch.
What does it give the Cleveland Indians
Battenfield is a quality prospect, so Cleveland did very well to acquire him in exchange for both Luplow and Johnson. Battenfield turns 24 in early August and has put up excellent numbers at Double-A ball this year. So, it would not be surprising to see him pitching with Cleveland either down the stretch or in 2022.
Fantasy impact
For now, there are too many bodies in the Rays' outfield mix, so Luplow does not need to be picked up this year. He may have a bigger role in 2022. Johnson is a journeyman reliever that should maximize his talent in Tampa Bay, but he has no fantasy value at this time. As for Battenfield, he should be picked up in most keeper formats if he is still available.
