Ryan Roberts went 2-for-3 with a homer and three runs scored as the Rays beat an Astros split-squad 7-2 in a rain-shortened game Tuesday. If the Rays hadn't tendered Roberts, it's hard to imagine he would have matched his current $2.95 million salary on the open market. As is, he's set to be an unusually expensive bench player on one of the AL's lowest spending teams. Of course, he could still end up with plenty of playing time, depending on how Kelly Johnson performs and whether Evan Longoria stays healthy.

Rays avoided arbitration with INF Ryan Roberts by agreeing to a one-year, $2.95 million contract. Roberts was in the second of four arbitration years as a Super 2 player. "TatMan" batted just .235/.296/.360 in 2012 but is expected to see plenty of at-bats in 2013 at a variety of positions.

Rays manager Joe Maddon said Monday that Ryan Roberts is the current favorite to start at second base next season. Ben Zobrist would remain at shortstop, with Sean Rodriguez "still in the mix" for playing time. Of course, the Rays appear to be in serious talks with the Marlins about Yunel Escobar, which would move Zobrist back to second base. Roberts batted just .235/.296/.360 with 12 homers and 10 steals in 2012.

Ryan Roberts returned to action on Saturday September 15.

Ryan Roberts (leg) is not in Friday's lineup against the Yankees. Roberts suffered a bruised lower left leg after he fouled a ball off his ankle in Thursday's extra-inning loss to the Orioles. He should be ready to return in the next couple of days. Elliot Johnson will start in his place at second base.

Ryan Roberts was diagnosed with a bruised left lower leg. Roberts suffered the injury when he fouled a ball off his left ankle in the 11th inning Thursday. X-rays came back negative, so he should be ready to return within the next few days.

Ryan Roberts left Thursday's game against the Orioles in the 11th inning after fouling a ball off his left ankle. Roberts was in severe pain on the ground for a couple of minutes before getting to his feet and gingerly walking off the field. Chris Archer -- yes, the pitcher -- finished the at-bat and struck out. Roberts went 2-for-4 before exiting.

Ryan Roberts (forearm) went 1-for-4 with a strikeout in his return to the Rays' lineup Wednesday. Roberts suffered a minor forearm strain on Tuesday night but will continue playing through it. He's batting .240/.304/.357 with 10 home runs and 48 RBI in 124 games between the Diamondbacks and Rays this season.

Ryan Roberts returned to action on Wednesday September 12.

X-rays on Ryan Roberts' left forearm have come back negative. He should be considered day-to-day. Roberts homered in Tuesday's game before leaving with a forearm strain.