Could we see Kris Bryant or Max Scherzer in a Rays uniform? The reigning American League champions are exploring both options with Friday’s Trade Deadline approaching, according to a report from ESPN’s Jeff Passan (subscription required).

Per Passan, the Rays have had “preliminary discussions” with the Nationals about Scherzer and the Cubs about Bryant. Both players are eligible for free agency this offseason.

Acquiring either player would be out of character for the cost-conscious team. Scherzer is in the final season of a seven-year, $210 million deal with Washington, although his salary this year is actually deferred without interest like it was in each of the past two seasons. Bryant is earning $19.5 million in his final arbitration year.

The Rays already made a big move last week to acquire another rental player, designated hitter Nelson Cruz, from the Twins. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Tampa Bay took on all of Cruz’s remaining salary (roughly $5 million in the trade). The Rays subsequently dealt left-hander Rich Hill to the Mets in a deal that saved them around $800,000.

The addition of Scherzer would give the Rays the ace they’ve been missing since Tyler Glasnow went on the injured list with a partial UCL tear in June. Glasnow is hoping to return later this season.

Scherzer can block any trade due to his 10-and-5 rights, and a source told Feinsand that he prefers to be traded to a West Coast team. The Dodgers, Padres and Giants are all expected to be in the mix for the 37-year-old ace. However, it’s possible Scherzer could waive his no-trade clause to go to a team with a strong chance of contending for a World Series title, regardless of location.

As for Bryant, he would give the club’s offense more right-handed power, especially at the corner-infield spots. The Rays have a .682 OPS vs. left-handed pitching in 2021, the fifth-lowest mark in the Majors. The 29-year-old Bryant has a 1.145 OPS vs. lefties this year and a 1.004 OPS in those matchups during his career.