DUNEDIN — The Latest on the Rays Bullpen Situation

The latest update on the Tampa Bay Rays bullpen situation reveals that right-hander Alex Faedo, originally from Alonso High in Tampa, may be headed to the injured list due to a shoulder issue that was detected in a recent MRI.

Acquired from the Tigers earlier this year, Faedo was expected to play a key role in relief for the Rays. The current prognosis suggests that Faedo may return to action in a matter of weeks rather than months, indicating that the injury is not too severe.

However, the situation could change if the Rays require a spot on the 40-man roster. If Faedo needs more time to recuperate, he may be placed on the 60-day IL.

Manager Kevin Cash remains optimistic, stating, “Right now, we’re still (expecting) a very small amount of time down. So shut down for a little bit, get a ball back in his hand. Nothing was too alarming on the MRI.”

Potential Replacements for Faedo

With Faedo potentially sidelined, pitchers like Mason Englert, Eric Orze, or Hunter Bigge could step up to fill the void in the bullpen. Of the three, Orze has stood out with an impressive performance this spring, boasting 10 strikeouts and a 1.42 ERA in 6.1 innings.

Faedo’s injury marks the first setback among players expected to make the opening day roster, a stark contrast to last season when several players started on the IL.

Heavy workload for Taj Bradley

Pitcher Taj Bradley exceeded the typical pitch count limits by throwing 101 pitches in 5.1 innings during Thursday’s game. This workload surpassed his pitch count in most regular-season starts last year.

Despite the heavy workload, Bradley expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I feel great. Curveball was good, two-seam was good. The split got better, got back to where it was last year.”

Manager Cash plans to monitor the workload of pitchers like Shane McClanahan and Drew Rasmussen more closely post-surgery, allowing other starters like Bradley to pitch deeper into games.

With the regular season approaching, Bradley may participate in minor-league or intrasquad games to stay sharp before the season kicks off.

Miscellany

Ha-Seong Kim has increased his rehab activities to include infield throws as he continues his recovery from shoulder surgery. Cash remains confident in Junior Caminero despite a recent slump in spring, emphasizing the player’s determination to improve.

In other news, Aranda had success with third-strike challenge calls, while Curtis Mead showcased strong defensive skills at first base during the game.

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Conclusion

The Tampa Bay Rays are navigating through the latest developments in their bullpen as injuries and workload management become key factors leading up to the regular season.

FAQs

1. How long is Alex Faedo expected to be out?

While the injury does not seem severe, Faedo may be sidelined for weeks as he recovers from the shoulder issue.

2. Who could potentially replace Faedo in the bullpen?

Mason Englert, Eric Orze, and Hunter Bigge are among the pitchers who could step up to fill Faedo’s role in the bullpen.

3. How is Taj Bradley handling his increased workload?

Bradley expressed confidence in his performance despite exceeding the pitch count limits in Thursday’s game.

4. What is the latest on other players’ progress and injuries?

Players like Ha-Seong Kim and Junior Caminero are making strides in their recoveries and performance, with the team closely monitoring their progress.