This affiliate content is not influenced by our advertising relationships, but AP and Data Skrive might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content.

The moves come ahead of Tampa Bay’s series opener against the Seattle Mariners, the second series in a 12-game road trip on the West Coast. Entering play Friday, the Rays sit 4.5 games behind the New York Yankees for the final wild-card spot in the American League -- with three teams to leap over.

The Tampa Bay Rays continue their two week journey out west by traveling up north to Seattle as they’ll face the Mariners in a three game set.