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Rays sign ex-1st round pick to minor league contract
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- Rays sign ex-1st round pick to minor league contract
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On Sunday, the Tampa Bay Rays agreed to a minor league contract with veteran infielder Nick Madrigal shortly after he elected free agency following his departure from the Los Angeles Angels .
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Madrigal became available after declining an outright assignment to Triple-A Salt Lake. He had been designated for assignment on June 22 after Los Angeles activated Jorge Soler from the injured list and promoted Denzer Guzman, creating a crowded infield situation.
The 2018 No. 4 overall pick by the Chicago White Sox will report to Triple-A Durham, providing Tampa Bay with experienced infield depth. The Rays have dealt with infield issues throughout the season, including Gavin Lux spending the year on the 60-day injured list, making Madrigal a logical addition to the organization.
After missing the entire 2025 season because of a fractured left shoulder suffered during spring training with the New York Mets that required surgery, Madrigal has produced encouraging numbers in 2026. He appeared in 15 games for the Angels, recording a .273/.385/.295 slash line across 52 plate appearances with a 97 OPS+ and 112 Rbat+. While he offered little power, he consistently reached base and provided solid offensive production.
Madrigal also contributed at Triple-A Salt Lake, batting .275/.353/.366 over 38 games and 168 plate appearances. During that stretch, he compiled two home runs, five doubles, one triple and 23 RBIs.
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Madrigal's offensive approach also fits Tampa Bay's style. Across his minor and major league action this season, he drew 25 walks while striking out only 11 times, demonstrating his contact-oriented profile and plate discipline.
Defensively, Madrigal has spent most of his major league career at second and third base, while also seeing time in left field in the minors this season. He has additionally logged innings at shortstop, giving the Rays another versatile option. If he continues producing at Durham, Madrigal could put himself in line for a promotion should Tampa Bay need another infielder later this season.
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