Report: Archer talks 'intensifying' between Rays, multiple teams

The Chris Archer era in Tampa could be inching closer to a conclusion.

Trade talks involving the right-hander are "intensifying" between the Tampa Bay Rays and multiple interested clubs despite the Rays' apparently high asking price, according to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick.

The New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Dodgers are among teams involved in the sweepstakes, The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and Jim Bowden reported Saturday.

In all, at least eight teams - also including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies - were previously said to be interested in acquiring Archer, who was scouted by several clubs during his most recent start on Sunday.

San Diego was reported to be making a "big push" for Archer this week, and might now be trying to separate itself from the pack. Sources told Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports that the Padres have made progress in their discussions with the Rays, though they remain resistant to make a deal given the supposedly high cost.

Although it appears the Archer sweepstakes may be gaining steam, the situation remains murky as some interested teams aren't even sure if the Rays will finally part with their ace before July 31.

The 30-year-old Archer has made 17 starts this season and owns a 4.31 ERA while averaging 9.6 strikeouts per nine innings, a number that's well off his career-high set just last year. He's under team control for another three seasons, including two club options in 2020 and '21.