James Loney's job as Tampa Bay Rays first baseman is up for grabs, with the team weighing numerous free-agent options. Loney is among them.
December's market activity is expected to get a boost during baseball's winter meetings, which begin Dec. 9. At that time, the Rays will field questions about a potential trade of starter David Price.
Regardless of a Price deal happening, the Rays have a corner hole to fill on their infield.
The Rays are in position to snag a solid left-handed hitter to play first base. Loney is an option, but he also is a target for the Colorado Rockies. That team also is believed to be examining Justin Morneau and Mike Napoli.
While a free agent, including Corey Hart, is a possibility for the Rays, the Tampa Bay Times mentions several trade possibilities. They include Mark Trumbo from the Los Angeles Angels, the Texas Rangers' Mitch Moreland and Ike Davis of the New York Mets.
With the Rockies' priority on Morneau, Loney remains in play.
Loney was labeled an underachiever when the Rays signed him last season for $2 million. He is a good defender and hit .299 in 2013, but he lacks home run power. He has said returning to the Rays is an option.
As for Price, he is headed for arbitration and a fat pay increase. The Rays might decide to cash in on him, and suitors are expected to want time to negotiate a contract extension before making a deal.
Meanwhile, the Rays re-signed reliever Juan Carlos Oviedo. They earlier bought out his contract as he continues recovery from Tommy John surgery.