What do the Rays want with a starting pitcher who has a career 4.46 ERA, 4.37 FIP, and 4.77 xFIP in 45 starts over 238 major league innings?
That’s the question on Trevor Richards, who the Rays picked up as a part of the deadline deal that also brought Nick Anderson to Tampa Bay, and sent the injured Ryne Stanek and the outfield prospect Jesus Sanchez to Miami.
The short answer is “length,” as Richards is a starting pitcher, averaging a bit over five innings per start. Right now, especially with Yonny Chirinos headed to the IL with finger inflammation and with Jacob Faria traded to Milwaukee, the Rays need his length.