Rays Top Ten Best Starters in Franchise History

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Sep 17, 2011; Boston, MA, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Jeff Niemann (34) during the fifth inning of a game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-US PRESSWIRE

#10 Jeff Niemann – RHP – 6’9″ 285 lbs

Drafted: 4th overall by the Rays in the 2004 draft

Stats

Resume among starters:

GS: 92, T-7th
IP: 544.1, 7th
Wins: 40, T-4th
ERA: 4.08, 12th
SO: 409, 8th
AVG: .251, 12th
Whip: 1.29, 8th

Although his career was cut short due to shoulder injuries that wouldn’t let him return to form, Jeff Niemann was a beast for the Rays over his 92 GS. He gave up less than a run per inning, struck out his fair share of hitters, and managed a winning percentage over .600 three of his 4.5 years with the Rays.

The Rays certainly envisioned a much longer and prosperous career when they selected him 4th overall. Once he made it to the Show, Niemann was a mainstay in the rotation. Sadly, his career was too short as leg and arm issues plagued him in 2011 and 2012.

Next: At #9 is a WildCard we hope proves healthy in 2016....