Veteran Outfielder Joins Rays After Strong Triple-A Performance
Austin Slater signed a minor league contract with Tampa Bay last month and has been promoted to the major league roster. The 33-year-old outfielder previously appeared in games for the New York Yankees after a midseason trade last year.
ForbesAustin Slater has been added to a major league roster after hitting .348 with a .696 slugging percentage in 28 plate appearances at Triple-A Durham. The 33-year-old signed a minor league deal with Tampa Bay late last month. He is expected to see playing time against several left-handed starters in upcoming games.
The move was intended to add outfield depth against left-handed pitching. Slater appeared in limited action for New York before the team continued making roster changes. He later signed with Tampa Bay after spending time in the minor leagues.
Slater owns a .248 career batting average in the major leagues and has historically performed better against left-handed pitching. The Rays currently lead the American League East standings. Whether Slater secures a sustained role remains to be determined.
