MLB · 1 year ago

The Rays’ Blueprint for Becoming MLB Contenders Again: 5 Offseason Must-Dos

Sportsgrid Staff

Host · Writer

5. Stay Aggressive in Free Agency
Despite their small-market reputation, the Rays have shown a willingness to pursue big names, like when they made a push for Freddie Freeman in 2021. Recent rumors about the Rays targeting Juan Soto indicate they’re not afraid to dream big.

Why It Matters: Even if they don’t land top-tier free agents, showing interest signals to players around the league that the Rays are serious about contending.
Key Selling Points: A strong young core featuring Caminero, Williams, and Isaac.

A history of success, including a World Series appearance in 2020 and consistent playoff berths.
While a blockbuster signing remains unlikely, the Rays can build credibility with players and agents by staying in the conversation. Sometimes, all it takes is one big splash to change the narrative.

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1. Define Roles for the Surplus in the Rotation
The Rays are poised to enter 2025 with a healthy rotation, featuring the return of Shane McClanahan, Jeffrey Springs, and Shane Baz, alongside promising arms like Taj Bradley and Ryan Pepiot. However, this depth creates questions for pitchers like Drew Rasmussen and Zack Littell, who may not fit into the starting five.

Drew Rasmussen: With his injury history, Rasmussen showed value in a hybrid role last season, making 16 appearances (only four starts) and excelling as an opener or multi-inning reliever. A bullpen role could preserve his arm and provide flexibility.

Zack Littell: After starting 29 games in 2024 with a 3.63 ERA, Littell's trade value is at its peak. While his expected metrics suggest regression, teams in need of reliable rotation depth will be interested.
To maximize their assets, the Rays should consider leveraging Littell in trade discussions while embracing Rasmussen’s versatility in the bullpen.

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2. Upgrade the Catcher Position
Catching has long been a weak spot for the Rays, and 2024 was no different. Ben Rortvedt and Alex Jackson combined for a .194 average and 67 wRC+, leaving the position an offensive black hole. Tampa Bay needs an upgrade, even if it’s a short-term solution.

Potential Targets

Danny Jansen: Known for his power, Jansen hit double-digit homers in three straight seasons before a down year in 2024.

Kyle Higashioka: Coming off a career-best season with 17 homers and a .739 OPS, Higashioka offers power potential.

Jacob Stallings: A veteran option, Stallings rebounded offensively in 2024 and could pair well with Rortvedt in a platoon.

With top catching prospect Dominic Keegan waiting in the wings, the Rays don't need a long-term solution, but they do need a significant upgrade for 2025.

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3. Explore a Trade for Pete Fairbanks
The Rays have never been shy about trading valuable assets at the right time, and Pete Fairbanks might be next. While he’s been a key bullpen piece since 2020, his 2024 performance showed signs of regression:

2024 Stats: 3.57 ERA, 3.50 FIP, 1.17 WHIP, and a decline in strikeout rate from 13.5 K/9 (2023) to 8.74 K/9.
Expected Metrics: A 4.08 xERA and .256 xBA suggest more regression could be coming.

With rising bullpen arms like Edwin Uceta and Hunter Bigge, the Rays could capitalize on Fairbanks’ remaining value and use the return to address other roster needs.

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4. Be Patient with Carson Williams
Top prospect Junior Caminero made his mark in 2024, and now the focus shifts to Carson Williams, the Rays’ No. 5 prospect. After excelling in the minors with a .821 OPS and 141 wRC+, Williams is knocking on the MLB door.

Current Middle Infield

Brandon Lowe: Productive but injury-prone, with just 107 games played in 2024.

José Caballero: A defense-first shortstop with limited offensive upside (.630 OPS, 83 wRC+).

Williams’ elite tools (60-grade power, 70-grade fielding) make him an immediate upgrade once he’s ready. The Rays should avoid rushing his development but ensure he’s part of their long-term core alongside Caminero and rising first baseman Xavier Isaac.
5. Stay Aggressive in Free Agency
Despite their small-market reputation, the Rays have shown a willingness to pursue big names, like when they made a push for Freddie Freeman in 2021. Recent rumors about the Rays targeting Juan Soto indicate they’re not afraid to dream big.

Why It Matters: Even if they don’t land top-tier free agents, showing interest signals to players around the league that the Rays are serious about contending.
Key Selling Points: A strong young core featuring Caminero, Williams, and Isaac.

A history of success, including a World Series appearance in 2020 and consistent playoff berths.
While a blockbuster signing remains unlikely, the Rays can build credibility with players and agents by staying in the conversation. Sometimes, all it takes is one big splash to change the narrative.

Have all the intel you need? Free actionable info is one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter.
1. Define Roles for the Surplus in the Rotation
The Rays are poised to enter 2025 with a healthy rotation, featuring the return of Shane McClanahan, Jeffrey Springs, and Shane Baz, alongside promising arms like Taj Bradley and Ryan Pepiot. However, this depth creates questions for pitchers like Drew Rasmussen and Zack Littell, who may not fit into the starting five.

Drew Rasmussen: With his injury history, Rasmussen showed value in a hybrid role last season, making 16 appearances (only four starts) and excelling as an opener or multi-inning reliever. A bullpen role could preserve his arm and provide flexibility.

Zack Littell: After starting 29 games in 2024 with a 3.63 ERA, Littell's trade value is at its peak. While his expected metrics suggest regression, teams in need of reliable rotation depth will be interested.
To maximize their assets, the Rays should consider leveraging Littell in trade discussions while embracing Rasmussen’s versatility in the bullpen.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

The Rays’ Blueprint for Becoming MLB Contenders Again: 5 Offseason Must-Dos

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