Rays Trade Catcher Jansen To Brewers, Acquire Marlins' Fortes

The Tampa Bay Rays are trading catcher Danny Jansen to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for infielder Jadher Areinamo, a top prospect in Milwaukee's system. Jansen, a 30-year-old catcher signed by the Rays in the offseason for $8.5 million, has struggled offensively this season with a .204 batting average but is valued for his defensive skills and clubhouse presence. The Brewers, dealing with starting catcher William Contreras' finger injury, see Jansen as a suitable backup and a complement to Contreras, especially given Jansen's strong performance against left-handed pitchers. Areinamo, a 21-year-old infielder with a solid batting record and defensive versatility, will bolster the Rays' infield prospects as they balance current roster needs with future development. To replace Jansen, the Rays are working on acquiring catcher Nick Fortes from the Miami Marlins. This trade reflects the Rays' shift from contending in the American League East to retooling for the future, while the Brewers aim to strengthen their catching depth in a competitive National League Central race.