1 Rays' injury that could greatly impact the beginning of the season

The Rays have been pretty lucky with their spring training injuries as Edwin Uceta, Steven Wilson, Taylor Walls, and Manuel Rodriguez were the sole players losing time due to injury. Walls and Uceta are definitely the most devastating losses to start the 2026 season, but the Rays will now lose another middle infielder at the onset of the campaign.

Gavin Lux sidelined with right shoulder impingement to begin the season

The Rays' proposed double play duo will start the 2026 season on the injured list as newly acquired Gavin Lux was recently added. Lux was traded to the Rays this offseason in a 3-team deal that also sent accomplished outfielder Josh Lowe to the Angels. The front office was thrilled to bring in a second baseman to replace the fantastic service of Brandon Lowe.

The 28-year-old infielder was drafted by the Dodgers in the first round of the 2016 draft. Los Angeles thought highly of their 20th overall pick, but the roster became too crowded for him as they would continuously sign invaluable free agents.

Nevertheless, Lux made the most of his appearances. In five minor league seasons, the 5'11 athlete hit .304 with 49 home runs and 203 RBIs. He was called up by the Dodgers in 2019 and was a valuable part of the roster in a backup infield role. His breakout campaign came in 2022 as Lux hit .279 and collected a league-leading seven triples in 129 contests.

After an injury plagued 2023 season, Gavin Lux performed well again in 2024, leading to his second World Series ring. However, the Dodgers sent Lux to the Reds prior to the 2025 spring training. His short Reds' tenure involved a totally different role as the Wisconsin native saw more time at DH and in the outfield than he did at his primary position of second base.

Therefore, Lux's move to the Rays this past offseason was a sigh of relief for the talented middle infielder as he was acquired for the purpose of manning second base all season. The unfortunate injury to his throwing arm's shoulder will leave him on the IL until mid-April. Therefore, utility man Richie Palacios will regain a roster spot after being optioned to the minors a few days ago.