Rays Top Ten Best Starters in Franchise History

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Sep 16, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer (22) throws a pitch during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

#3 Chris Archer

Drafted: by the Indians in the 5th round of the 2006 draft

Acquired: along with Hak-Ju Lee, Robinson Chirinos, Sam Fuld, and Brandon Guyer in return for Matt Garza, Fernando Perez, and Zac Rosscup (Jan 8th, 2011)

Resume among starters:

GS: 93, 6th
IP: 564.2, 6th
Wins: 32, T-9th
ERA: 3.33, 3rd
SO: 562, 4th
AVG: .229, 1st
Whip: 1.19, 2nd

Once Archer has thrown enough arrows towards home plate as a Rays starter, he’ll likely challenge most of the stats put up by both Shields and Price. A true leader, he has the ability to lead this staff for years to come and is signed to do so. When you talk about makeup, leadership, and talent, he has the trifecta of what you look for in a pitcher and is a pleasure to watch take the ball every 5th start.

Next: At #2 is Mr. Longevity and one of the most beloved...