The Tampa Bay Rays finished in 4th place a season ago, 17 games behind the Blue Jays and Yankees. The lone bright spot for them was the breakout from star 3B Junior Caminero, who looks like he is going to be one of the best players in the game for many years to come. In typical Rays fashion, they traded away key pieces of their team from a year ago, with Brandon Lowe and Shane Baz being the trades that stand out most. This is a team that constantly does this, yet they seem to hit on their returns more times than not.
They are likely to win around 72-75 games this season, be competitive at times, but with Baltimore looking stronger than they were a year ago, Tampa is likely to finish the season in last place. Now, if Shane McClanhan can stay healthy and be an ace, and Junior Caminero can have another MVP-caliber season, this team could surprise.
Advertisement
Projected 2026 Record: 73-89
Lineup:
Feb 27, 2026; Port Charlotte, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz (2) is congratulated after he scored a run during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Charlotte Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
This lineup isn’t overpowering but features depth and contact ability, with a few additions to spark offense. The Rays typically use platoons and matchups heavily to maximize their players’ strengths , so expect them to have many different variations to their lineup. The main players to keep an eye on for this offense are Junior Caminero, Jonathan Aranda, Yandy Diaz, Chandler Simpson, and the newly acquired Cedric Mullins and Gavin Lux.
Rotation:
The Rays traded away Shane Baz this offseason and Taj Bradley at the trade deadline last season. Both were two of the youngest arms they had in their rotation, so this season’s arms look a little different. They are a blend of high-end arms, veterans, and intriguing young pieces. This staff has top-heavy talent with McClanahan and Rasmussen, but relies on depth for mid-rotation stability.
Advertisement
If several arms take a step forward, Tampa Bay could maintain one of the better overall rotation groups in the AL. Ryan Pepiot is a very good number three starter who has the potential to be the team ace. Names to focus on are Steven Matz and Joe Boyle who could round out the rotation.
Bullpen:
Sep 7, 2025; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Griffin Jax (22) throws a pitch during the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
The Rays didn’t pick up the team option on closer Pete Fairbanks, so the 2026 bullpen is likely defined by committee. There are 3 main arms that stand out as potential closers. So, with no guaranteed closer currently, the late innings will likely be split among three pitchers. Griffin Jax, Edwin Uceta, and Garrett Cleavinger are the options, and will be used depending on matchups and who is performing best. Jax is the one who is expected to get the first crack at the job.
Advertisement
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —
NFL: 5 most overrated NFL free agents hitting the market in 2026
MLB: What drug did Jurickson Profar take? MLB announces PED use
SPORTS MEDIA: Stephen A. Smith bashes underwhelming NBA star as ‘food addict’
VIRAL: NBC delivers epic nostalgia with ‘Throwback Tuesday’ NBA broadcast
WORLD CUP: Will Iran compete in the 2026 World Cup? Donald Trump weighs in
WNBA: Players, union leaders divided, claims letter from 2-time MVP and 4-time All-Star
The post How the Rays can compete in the AL East with other powerhouse teams appeared first on The Big Lead.