For starters, only two of the Rays’ five projected starters reached the 150-inning mark in 2025, and while they could always rely on internal options, this isn’t a winning formula. It also seems likely that Matz will make a significant number of starts for this team, and it’s a little more unclear how this will go since he hasn’t done this in two years.
The other major question mark for this rotation will be left-hander Shane McClanahan. Although he was one of the better arms in the game when healthy, he hasn’t pitched since 2023, which makes it much harder to rely on him.
Given these questions, it makes sense that the Rays would be looking to add some more depth to their rotation. Aside from giving the team more flexibility, they could use a very solid arm to ensure this group can be competitive. This is where righty Zack Littell comes (back) in, as he’d address each of these areas.
Littell put together a very 2025 campaign between two teams, including the Rays. In 186.2 innings, he registered an ERA of 3.81, a WHIP of 1.10, 130 strikeouts, and a 1.5 fWAR. He was a very reliable arm every time he stepped on the mound, and that’s exactly what the Rays are looking for from a starting pitcher.
Aside from the time he spent with the Rays in 2025, Littell has had a good amount of success in a Rays uniform. In fact, his best season as a full-time starter took place with the club in 2024, where he registered a 3.63 ERA across 156.1 innings.
Even though he’s coming off a very solid year, Littell shouldn’t command too much money on the free agent market. If the Rays were to sign him, a two-year deal worth $28 million would be a great fit for both sides.