The Tampa Bay Rays Trade Jose Siri to the Cleveland Guardians

Rays Acquire Outfielder Will Benson in the Deal

The Tampa Bay Rays have traded outfielder Jose Siri to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for outfielder Will Benson, the teams announced Tuesday.

Siri, 27, was designated for assignment by the Rays on Monday to make room on the roster for first baseman Harold Ramirez, who was acquired from the Chicago Cubs in a separate trade.

Siri Struggled at the Plate in 2023

Siri struggled at the plate in 2023, batting just .203 with a .281 on-base percentage and a .363 slugging percentage. He had 13 home runs and 39 RBIs in 125 games.

Benson, 25, was the Guardians' first-round pick in the 2016 MLB draft. He has yet to make his MLB debut but has hit .277 with a .364 on-base percentage and a .482 slugging percentage in 493 minor league games.

Benson is Expected to Compete for a Spot on the Guardians' Opening Day Roster

Benson is expected to compete for a spot on the Guardians' Opening Day roster. He is a versatile outfielder who can play all three positions.

The Rays are hoping that Benson can provide them with a boost in the outfield. He is a good hitter with power and speed.

The Guardians are hoping that Siri can provide them with some speed and defense in the outfield. He is a good runner and has a strong arm.