Pitcher Zack Littell is rewarded for his strong season through the arbitration process with a hefty raise to $5.72 million.

The Rays avoided arbitration hearings with four players prior to Thursday’s deadline to exchange salary figures for the coming season, and they will head to a hearing with shortstop Taylor Walls.

However, their fervid appreciation for Taylor Walls’ defense creates a high bar for that type of move. Most of their improvement as they seek to get back to the playoffs after a disappointing 80 ...