Price might be right: Maddon understands Rays could deal ace

David Price has two more years before he can test free agency, and Tampa Bay manager Joe Maddon knows that means he can't count on his lefty ace being in the Rays' rotation next year.

''This is how we have to operate within our little world,'' Maddon said Monday at the winter meetings. ''So if it were to happen, it's one of those that's almost the word 'devastating' in a sense, but we have to recover from those kind of moments if it does actually occur.''

The low-budget Rays are rumored to be entertaining trade offers for the 28-year-old 2012 AL Cy Young Award winner who could be in for a huge payday after the 2015 season.

It wouldn't be the first time Tampa Bay dealt a talented player for prospects. Last year, the Rays traded right-handers James Shields and Wade Davis to Kansas City for a package of prospects - including this year's AL Rookie of the Year, Wil Myers.

Known for enjoying clubhouse hijinks to keep the team loose, Maddon, relaxed and enjoying a month driving around in his RV, was not dwelling on the possibility being without Price - except in one area.

''I don't know where the crazy is going to come from because David did supply crazy,'' Maddon said.