Athletics trade Will Simpson to Rays

Oakland sends Simpson, Boyle, and Watters to Tampa Bay for Jeffrey Springs

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The Oakland Athletics have traded pitcher Will Simpson, along with Joe Boyle and Jacob Watters, to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for left-handed pitcher Jeffrey Springs, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Why it matters

This trade represents a shift in the Athletics' roster as they look to rebuild, while the Rays continue to make moves to bolster their pitching staff for a potential playoff run.

The details

The key pieces in the trade are Simpson, a promising young pitcher, and Springs, a reliable left-handed reliever. The Athletics are likely looking to acquire younger talent and cut costs, while the Rays are aiming to strengthen their pitching depth as they compete in the tough AL East division.

  • The trade was completed on Saturday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Will Simpson

A pitcher for the Oakland Athletics who was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays.

Jeffrey Springs

A left-handed pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays who was acquired in the trade with the Oakland Athletics.

Joe Boyle

A player who was traded from the Oakland Athletics to the Tampa Bay Rays alongside Will Simpson.

Jacob Watters

A player who was traded from the Oakland Athletics to the Tampa Bay Rays alongside Will Simpson.

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What’s next

The trade is expected to be finalized, with the players reporting to their new teams in the coming days.

The takeaway

This trade represents an opportunity for the Rays to bolster their pitching staff as they aim to compete in the AL East, while the Athletics continue to reshape their roster as part of a rebuilding effort.