Yes, yes, we have all seen the vast signings that the Miami Marlins have made since this offseason began, including the signing of top free agent Jose Reyes, but what we have not been looking at is the potential that the Tampa Bay Rays have to make moves this winter. James Shields, by far their best pitcher last year on a Rays team that made the playoffs, is now on the trading block for Tampa. But why, why would they trade their ace? Well, that's because they have about fifteen more just waiting to emerge. 

The Rays have arguably the best young arms in baseball, with players like David Price (26), Jeff Niemann (28), Wade Davis (26), Jeremy Hellickson (24), Alex Cobb (24), and last but certainly not least, the phenom, Matt Moore (22). With Shields, they can bring in another bat to help supplement Evan Longoria and Ben Zobrist, and with that pitching staff, they are a real contender. Earlier today, the Rays announced a new contract with Matt Moore, keeping him in Tampa for another 5 years, plus 3 years in additional club options. WOW. Imagine having to face that kid for 8 years in the same division. The deal is reportedly worth up to $40 million, and if he pitches like he has all through the minors and so far in the bigs, they struck gold. 

Last year, in his short time on the big league roster, Moore impressed everyone with his immaculate command, blazing speed, and amazing maturity on the mound. In just 9.1 innings during the regular season, Moore compiled 15 strikeouts with just 3 walks, and kept his ERA to 2.89. Not bad for a kid who pitched 8 of those 9.1 innings against the Red Sox and Yankees. But, that was just the beginning. When the Rays hit the postseason, he got even better. In their first game against the Texas Rangers in the ALDS, Moore started the game, tossing 7 shutout innings with just 2 hits and 2 walks allowed, while racking up 6 strikeouts. Not a bad first postseason start, huh? Moore is definitely a future ace, and with Price and Hellickson in the two spots above him, this could be a scary rotation for many years. 

So, Florida now may seem to hold two scary playoff contenders, with the low-market Rays and the (now) big-market Marlins. Florida seems to be the place where everyone wants to "bring their talents," but will it pay off with a ring? Who knows. But, just don't be surprised if you end up seeing a new "subway series" between the Marlins and Rays, and a new era in baseball emerging.