Inbox: Rays to use starters as trade chips?

Do we know if the Rays are planning to address the catcher, left field and DH positions via trade? This offseason seems to be the perfect time for the Rays to use their pitching and prospect depth to solve all three of those issues. The Rays could use some bullpen help too. — Michael B., Odessa, Fla.

First, given the team’s depth at starting pitching, trading a starting pitcher remains at the forefront of possible offseason action. According to the rumor mill, Chris Archer is the most sought after of the Rays’ starters. Based on needs, one might assume that the Rays would be in the market for a catcher or a left fielder. However, history has shown that the club has always danced to a different beat. Observing how it likes to do things, I believe if it trades one of its starters, it will be for the best player (or players) it can bring back in return — and not a player just to fill a need.

• Hot Stove Tracker

The Rays are said to be interested in free-agent catcher Jason Castro. If signed, he could be paired with either Luke Maile or Curt Casali. As for the bullpen, they have Alex Colome and Brad Boxberger returning to anchor the back end. I look for them to sign some veteran relievers — normally such players are signed to Minor League contracts with invites to Spring Training — to compete for jobs. I’m most intrigued by …

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