Rays Sign Nick Madrigal to Minor-League Deal
The signing supplies Tampa Bay with a low-cost, versatile infielder at Triple-A who could be promoted if the big-league club needs depth during its injury-shortened infield season.
Overview
- The Tampa Bay Rays signed veteran infielder Nick Madrigal to a minor-league contract on June 28 and will have him report to Triple-A Durham as organizational infield depth.
- Madrigal became available after the Los Angeles Angels designated him for assignment on June 22 when Jorge Soler was activated, and he declined an outright assignment to Triple-A Salt Lake before electing free agency.
- After missing all of 2025 for surgery on a fractured left shoulder, Madrigal returned in 2026 and produced a contact-oriented line of .273/.385/.295 in 52 plate appearances with the Angels.
- Madrigal’s profile centers on high contact and plate discipline—he drew far more walks than strikeouts this season—and he has played primarily second and third base with some limited outfield and shortstop innings.
- Tampa Bay’s infield has been stretched by injuries, most notably Gavin Lux on the 60-day injured list, so Madrigal offers a low-cost, experienced option in Triple-A who could be called up if the Rays need a right-handed contact bat or extra infield versatility.