Ian Desmond

Ian Desmond a long shot to sign with Rays

Free agent shortstop Ian Desmond is a "long shot" for the Tampa Bay Rays, according to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

What It Means:

There's been some rumblings about Tampa Bay being interested in Desmond, as it's possible they can get him at bargain this late into the off-season, but the Rays don't want to sacrifice a draft pick in order to sign the veteran. The Rays could always change their mind, but it appears likely that Desmond will end up signing elsewhere. The Chicago White Sox have been pegged by many as a logical fit for the 30 year-old, but the South Siders are also hesitant to lose a pick.

Desmond posted just a .294 wOBA in 156 games played for the Washington Nationals last season, and his .290 on base percentage ranked 10th worst among qualified hitters. He failed to reach the 20 home run mark for the 4th consecutive season, although he did come close, hitting 19. Desmond's -0.70 nERD ranked 329th.