Score: 76/100
Tampa Bay Rays: Offseason Moves That Set Them Up for 2025
The Tampa Bay Rays didn’t make a splash in the offseason like some of their competitors, but they still managed to make moves that should help them remain competitive in 2025. After losing key players like Randy Arozarena and Jose Siri, the Rays set their sights on reinforcements that could strengthen both their lineup and pitching staff. Here’s how their roster stands heading into the new season:
Key Acquisitions:
Eloy Jiménez: The Rays added Eloy Jiménez, a slugger who can inject some much-needed power into the lineup. Despite his injury history, Jiménez has the potential to be a huge asset in a season where the Rays will need to fill the void left by Arozarena. Prediction: Jiménez will hit .230+ with 17+ home runs if he stays healthy for most of the season. His power could make him a middle-of-the-order threat for the Rays.
Jose Siri Trade: The Rays traded Jose Siri to the New York Mets for Eric Orze and cash. While Siri was a great defensive center fielder, the Rays opted for bullpen depth in this deal. Orze, a right-handed reliever, will help shore up a bullpen that has been a key strength in the past. Prediction: While Orze won’t make headlines, his contribution to an already solid bullpen could be the key to keeping the Rays competitive.
Strengths:
Junior Caminero: The Rays' top prospect, Caminero, is knocking on the door of the majors and is poised to make an impact in 2025. With his elite bat, solid defensive skills, and power potential, he could be a key piece in the Rays’ future. Prediction: Caminero will hit .240+ with 22+ home runs in his rookie year, giving the Rays another big bat to support the offense.
Luke Raley: With Arozarena gone, Raley will likely see a bigger role in 2025. He showed flashes of power in limited time, but now the Rays need him to take the next step and become a reliable contributor. Prediction: He’ll hit .240 with 20+ home runs. His consistency will be crucial in filling the offensive gaps, but his defensive limitations could hurt in key moments.
Taj Bradley: Bradley, another top prospect, is expected to play a bigger role in the rotation in 2025. With great velocity and command, he could be a breakout player this year. Prediction: Expect Bradley to post a 3.80 ERA and 170+ strikeouts in his first full season as a starting pitcher.
Shane McClanahan: After a frustrating 2024 season plagued by injuries the entire way through, McClanahan will be a key part of the rotation if he can stay healthy. With his electric stuff and the potential to be one of the best pitchers in the league, the Rays are banking on him to lead their pitching staff. Prediction: Expect McClanahan to bounce back in 2025, posting a 2.80 ERA with 200+ strikeouts if he's fully healthy.
Weaknesses:
Offensive Inconsistency: While the addition of Jiménez provides some power, the Rays’ offense still lacks a consistent threat. With the loss of Arozarena, they will need younger players like Raley and Josh Lowe to step up and fill the void. If the offense doesn’t develop more depth, they could struggle to put up runs.
Pitching Depth: While the top of the rotation looks strong with McClanahan and Bradley, the Rays still need to see more from their pitching depth. Their bullpen has been solid in the past, but they’ll need continued consistency from guys like Pete Fairbanks and Jason Adam to stay competitive.
Final Prediction:
The Rays will finish 86-76 in 2025. The pitching staff will carry them, with McClanahan and Bradley providing the foundation, but the offense may struggle to score enough runs consistently. With the addition of Jiménez and Raley, the Rays have power, but it’s unclear if they can put it all together in a way that consistently challenges top teams.
Offseason Grade: 76/100
The Rays made some solid, low-key moves, but their offseason didn't take them over the top. The addition of Jiménez could pay off, but the team still needs more offensive depth and consistency. While they addressed some bullpen needs with the Siri trade, they didn’t make enough moves to solidify themselves as a serious contender for a division title. Their season will depend heavily on the development of their younger players and health across the roster.
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