Tampa Bay Rays
Key Additions
- RHP Ryan Pepiot
- RHP Phil Maton
- LHP Tyler Alexander
Key Loses
- OF Manuel Margot
- RHP Tyler Glasnow
- 1B/OF Luke Raley
- C Christian Bethancourt
- LHP Jake Diekman
- RHP Robert Stephenson
Kevin Cash will have a unique challenge heading into 2024, as the Rays roster feels weaker than in previous years. Offensively, the loss of Wander Franco speaks for itself. Pitching wise, the Rays will start 2024 without four of their best starters. That leaves the door open for the Rays youngsters will establish themselves, and if there's anything the Rays are exceptional at, it's getting the most out of their players.
The Rays will look at Yandy Diaz and Randy Arozarena for the bulk of their offensive production. Both of them are sleeper MVP picks and look to anchor this lineup. Brandon Lowe and Isaac Paredes are the power providers in Tampa Bay, with Jose Lowe waiting to come off the injured list to join them. The rest of the lineup are guys that haven't been consistent major league contributions yet. Jonathan Aranda, Richie Palacios, Jose Caballero, and Rene Pinto are all guys we haven't seen all too much of, so I don't have much to say about that. Kevin Cash will still have veterans Harold Ramirez and Amed Rosario up his sleeve, a narrative that will be worth keeping an eye on. Regardless of these question marks, the Rays are infamous for getting the most out of their players, so don't be surprised if this Rays lineup once again finishes as one of the most productive offenses in the league. The biggest question will be if that production can finally carry over into the postseason.
When analyzing the pitching side, I had the same notes as I did looking at the Rays lineup. Sure they have Zach Eflin, Aaron Civale, and Zack Litell ready to go, but outside of those three, the Rays are relying on young pitchers. Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen, Jeffrey Springs, and Taj Bradley are all injured, each of which are above quality arms, including a Cy Young contender in McClanahan. Even with those four guys missing to start the year, the Rays make the most out of their pitchers, and it'll be fascinating to see how they maximize each of their pitchers' results once again. Regardless of injuries, the Rays always find themselves in the thick of the playoff race. Every time I'm ready to say they won't be able to contend, they end making the playoffs anyways. This time, I am confident to say I don't have the Rays making the initial playoff picture heading into 2024.