AL champion Rays were mainly built by wise trades and low-cost signings

The Tampa Bay Rays were built into American League champions through savvy trades, budget-friendly signings and an organizational strength in identifying, developing and maximizing talent.They’re four wins from the franchise’s first World Series title thanks to smart decisions by president of baseball operations Erik Neander, manager Kevin Cash and their scouting and coaching staffs.The Rays face the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 on Friday night.Only three players on Tampa Bay’s 26-man roster in the AL Championship Series were drafted by the team, and first baseman Jonathan Aranda was an international signing. Speedy outfielder Chandler Simpson and left-hander Ian Seymour were second-round picks, and shortstop Taylor Walls was a third-round selection.Two-time All-Stars Junior Caminero and Yandy Díaz are among 16 players acquired in trades. Both came from Cleveland, in separate deals. Each hit a two-run homer to seal a 7-3 victory over the Guardians on Monday night that clinched the Rays’