Those two are certainly on the decline, but done I don't know. I think they are excellent signings for the Rays. Worst case they really show their age, and don't produce at the level hoped. If so, you release, trade, or walk away from them at the end of the year. However, for $7-8 million they could get a middle of the order bat in Manny, and a solid top of the order guy in Damon. Think about the absurd money teams have tossed out there this year. The money invested here, on these players, is a good risk if you ask me. Manny could easily give them what Pena did, if not more. Damon clearly won't replace Crawford, but he'll be better than whatever they have now. I really like these moves for the Rays.
Another thing to consider is that either player could end up being compensatory free agents at seasons end, which could net Tampa draft picks, or they could be players teams trade for at the deadline. They're each on 1 year deals for short money. If Tampa isn't contending, and these guys are having decent seasons, Tampa could get something for them.
