Rays Reunite With Former Player in Free Agency

Peter Aiken-Imagn Images

Rays Reunite With Former Player in Free Agency

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Sep 2, 2026 1:48 PM ET

Austin Slater is headed back to a familiar organization as the Tampa Bay Rays add veteran outfield depth for the final stretch of the regular season.

The 33-year-old outfielder has signed a minor league contract with Tampa Bay, giving the first-place club another experienced option within its organization.

Slater previously spent time with the Rays earlier this season before continuing a journey that has taken him through multiple organizations.

The move was first reported by MLB insider Robert Murray, who shared the news on X.

Source: Austin Slater has agreed to a deal to return to the Rays. https://t.co/y49PWGyknl
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) September 2, 2026

Slater appeared in seven games with Tampa Bay during his earlier stint, hitting .273 with a .360 on-base percentage.

He also spent time with the Miami Marlins and New York Mets this season, appearing in 12 games with Miami and nine with New York.

The veteran has now found his way back to the Rays organization as the club prepares for the final month of the season.

Across his 10-year major league career, Slater has established himself as an experienced outfielder with a .335 career on-base percentage.

The Rays will initially assign him to Triple-A Durham, where he can provide organizational depth and remain available if the major league club needs another outfield option.

Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash (16) Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images

Tampa Bay entered the latest stretch of the season with an 83-55 record and a 4.5-game lead over the New York Yankees in the American League East.

With September underway and roster depth becoming increasingly important, the Rays have elected to bring back a player who already knows the organization.

Slater’s reunion gives Tampa Bay another veteran option as it looks to protect its division lead and carry its strong season into the postseason.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: