Rays acquire Bethancourt to add depth

TAMPA, Fla. — In search of depth behind the plate, the Tampa Bay Rays obtained receiver and infielder Christian Bethancourt from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for two minor league players.

The A’s received right-hander Christian Fernandez and outfielder Cal Stevenson in the trade.

Bethancourt hit .249 with four home runs and 19 RBIs in 56 games for the A’s after starting the season with their AAA farm in Las Vegas.

He had five hits for 19 appearances (.263) in five games with the Aviators when he was added to the A’s roster on April 15. The versatile Bethancourt started games at first base, receiver and designated hitter.

Rays receiver Mike Zunino has been sidelined since June 10 with left shoulder inflammation.