Tampa Bay Rays Secure Harrison Bader in MLB Free Agency
Harrison Bader has emerged as a significant target in MLB free agency. As of November 4, he became a free agent after a mixed season. The Tampa Bay Rays, coming off their disappointing 77-win season, are keen to revamp their roster, making Bader an appealing option.
Tampa Bay Rays’ Recent Performance
The Rays experienced a challenging 2025 season, recording only 77 wins. This marks their lowest win total since 2007, excluding the unusual circumstances of 2020. Previously, they had a successful campaign in 2023, where they won 99 games. The need for roster improvement is evident.
Harrison Bader’s Profile
Bader, now 31 years old, stands out as one of the top free agents available. Last season, he boasted impressive statistics with a 3.9 WAR, 17 home runs, and a .277 batting average. His 2025 season saw him split time between the Minnesota Twins and the Philadelphia Phillies. Throughout his MLB career, he has played for six different teams.
Defensive Capabilities
Bader’s defensive skills are noteworthy. He ranked in the 68th percentile for his Batting Run Value and the 81st percentile for Fielding Run Value. Over his career, he has consistently maintained a Fielding Run Value above three, highlighting his reliability as a defensive outfielder.
How Bader Fits with the Rays
Currently, Jonny DeLuca is expected to lead as the Rays’ center fielder in 2026. While DeLuca has shown potential, his performance in 2024 raised some concerns. He had a batting average of .217 with six home runs in 332 at-bats. In contrast, Josh Lowe, who has also played center field, saw a decline in performance with a .220 batting average and low defensive metrics.
Statistics Overview
Here is a summary of Harrison Bader’s key statistics from the recent season:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Home Runs | 17 |
| Batting Average | .277 |
| On-Base Percentage (OBP) | .347 |
| Slugging Percentage (SLG) | .449 |
| On-Base Plus Slugging (OPS) | .796 |
Conclusion
Given the Rays’ need for talented players, signing Harrison Bader in MLB free agency could be a strategic move. His offensive abilities, combined with his exceptional defense, might be the boost the team needs to improve on their recent performance.
