Ballpark issues are now changing how the Tampa Bay Rays build their 2025 roster

According to the Tampa Bay Timesthe Tampa Bay Rays have a new roster concern this offseason as a result of their baseball situation.

To accommodate the possibility of extended rain delays and downpours that come with an outdoor ballpark in Florida, the Rays are looking to relievers who can cover multiple innings at a time.

According to President of Baseball Operations Erik Neander:

“it’s… making sure we can protect our arms and maneuver the roster so that if a game is disrupted and postponed after two innings and you lose a starter, you have to go four or five (innings). comes back before you can go to the bullpen, that you have the ability to maneuver from day to day as necessary, to cover that and do it in a way that is responsible for the well-being of the group.”

In addition to the rain situation, the Rays could also use swing guys as cover for pitchers returning from injury. Ace Shane McClanahan underwent Tommy John surgery in late 2023 and likely won’t be ready for a full workload in 2025, so the team will need more weapons to relieve the stress on him.

The Rays finished 80-82 last season, which was good enough for fourth place in the American League East. Since they are talented (and healthier), they should be able to compete in the division, but this situation has thrown a wrench into both short- and long-term plans.

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