The Rays are projected to open the ALDS with Drew Rasmussen, followed by Freddy Peralta and Nick Martinez, while Griffin Jax and Ian Seymour could share game four. The writer expects veterans Cole Sulser and Steven Matz to take the final two bullpen spots.
The first-round bye gives Tampa Bay flexibility to set the rotation, and the team can carry 13 pitchers. The author’s projected staff assumes Tyler Wells and Garrett Cleavinger, both dealing with injuries, are ready for the ALDS. Shane McClanahan has been ruled out of the series but may return later. Manuel Rodriguez had not been activated after a brief IL stint when the article was written, though the author expects him on the postseason roster.
Sulser posted a 1.29 ERA in seven innings since returning from the IL, including a save; Matz had a 1.59 ERA over 11 innings in eight appearances after sitting out just over a week in August. If Wells or Cleavinger is not ready, the author says rookies Brody Hopkins and Ty Johnson could fill those spots.
