Will the tampa bay rays continue “The rays way” of success amid franchise obstacles?
Will the Tampa Bay Rays Continue “The Rays Way” of Success Amid Franchise Difficulties?
The Rays Way
The Tampa Bay Rays, often recognized for prevailing as the underdog in a division filled with teams that aren't afraid to open their checkbooks, always seem to find “The Rays Way.” Despite not spending a fortune on top-tier free agents every year, they manage to develop under-the-radar players into legitimate powerhouses. Every season, it feels like the Rays’ developmental system produces a new name that takes the league by storm and propels the team to playoff contention.
The Obstacles
In 2024, the Rays faced multiple setbacks as several starting pitchers fell victim to the injury bug. Ace Shane McClanahan, who underwent Tommy John surgery in mid-2023, missed the entire 2024 season. Similarly, Pete Fairbanks, the lockdown closer, dealt with a nerve issue in his hand, which led to inconsistency throughout the year. Other players, like Jeffrey Springs, Jonathan Aranda, and Josh Lowe, struggled with injuries, resulting in a disappointing 80-82 record and the team missing the postseason for the first time since 2018.
Hurricanes Helene and Milton were among the most devastating storms to hit the Tampa Bay area in recent memory. Our thoughts and prayers at OppoTalko go out to all those affected by these tragedies. The storm severely damaged the Rays' home stadium in St. Petersburg, forcing the team to play their 2025 season in Tampa at George Steinbrenner Field. This is a significant change for the organization and its fan base, but it offers an exciting opportunity for Tampa locals to show their support in a vibrant and energetic environment. As always, the Rays will continue to do it “The Rays Way.”
Back, Better Than Ever?
Tampa Bay’s starting rotation for 2025 looks like a dark horse contender in the competitive AL East. Two-time All-Star Shane McClanahan will serve as the ace, followed by Drew Rasmussen, Taj Bradley (stay tuned for a player spotlight), Shane Baz, and Ryan Pepiot. The mix of power pitchers and lefties with filthy breaking stuff positions Tampa Bay for a dynamic rotation heading into the new season.
Key additions this offseason include Eloy Jiménez, a veteran power bat who will likely start the season in Triple-A, Danny Jansen, and Ha-Seong Kim. Danny Jansen’s addition is massive for the Rays. For the first time in quite a while, the team will have an everyday catcher with years of MLB experience. Jansen can provide much-needed veteran leadership, something the team has lacked for the past decade. Kim, signed to a two-year, $29 million deal (with a player option for the second year), is a sneaky sub-.300 hitter with power. Returning from a shoulder injury, he is expected to make his Rays debut in mid-to-late May of 2025. Kim will also serve as a defensive anchor in the middle infield. The pairing of Brandon Lowe and Ha-Seong Kim should be exciting to watch. I expect big productions from players who haven’t yet hit the prime of their careers, including this I would say I am most eager to watch Curtis Mead perform. He gives shades of a young Evan Longoria. He is skilled with the bat behind the plate and an overall smart baseball player. Expect a big contribution from Mead this year as he steps out of the shadows into the bright lights at Stienbrenner Field this season.
Ray-sing Expectations: The Final Projection
In a tough division like the AL East, I project the Tampa Bay Rays to finish 3rd with a record of 89-73 and secure a Wild Card berth. The Rays will benefit from a schedule heavy with home games in the early months, which will allow them to compete in Florida's more tolerable temperatures rather than facing the summer heat in outdoor games later in the season. My fellow Floridians will understand! With a strong rotation and a stellar defensive history, I believe this will help the team develop more consistency throughout the season. The outdoor atmosphere should also give the offense a boost, and I expect big numbers this year from Yandy Díaz. This could be the year he steps out from behind the shadows of other AL sluggers and positions himself for bigger awards in the offseason. Expect a bounce-back year from former Cy Young winner Shane McClanahan, and look for bullpen pitchers to emerge and make an impact. I’m excited to see this team compete in 2025!
—Anthony Valentine, Co-Founder, OppoTalko