Agent Scott Boras: Rays not a fit in Tampa Bay

SAN DIEGO — Leading agent Scott Boras didn’t have an answer to the Rays’ on-and-on-and-ongoing stadium issues in the Tampa Bay market, but he did have an interesting way to frame the issue.

“It’s a good product in a place that has proven to be unappreciative of what baseball offers in Tampa Bay,” he said. “So I’m not sure that we have a fit. And it’s something that screams for attention.”

Boras has more pressing matters on his mind, representing several of the top free agents.

But during his winter meeting media briefing Tuesday, he did suggest an interesting course of action for general manager Erik Neander as he seeks to improve the Rays.

While most of the focus has been on boosting the offense and maybe improving the bullpen, Boras said the Rays could be well served by adding a starting pitcher, even though they have a solid group of Charlie Morton, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Yonny Chirinos and Ryan Yarbrough, and with potential depth at Triple-A including Jalen Beeks and Brendan McKay.

“I think the Rays feel — of course based upon last year’s performance and the core they have and the retention of the players they have — I think they’re hoping for good health in their rotation,” Boras said.

“Certainly the talent is at a very, very high level. No question that an experienced veteran could have really served them well last year. And that’s got to be in the back of Erik’s mind as he goes forward.”