Rays Dirty Dozen: SP Depth Leads Rays into 2016

Sep 16, 2015; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Chris Archer (22) talks with pitching coach Jim Hickey (48) on the mound during the sixth inning against the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Rays are known to develop some of the best starting pitchers in MLB. They may now have more high-quality SP than ever before, which is no small feat.

It can be frustrating for Rays fans as they wait to see if the team can improve their lineup enough to compete at a higher level in 2016. As frustrating as that may be, their wealth in pitching has to be be one of the most heart-warming things to lean on as we near the New Year. With 2016’s Spring Training right around the corner, the Rays have a very, very Dirty Dozen starters that are ready to take the team to new heights in 2016.

As a way to make Rays fans feel great about their team heading into 2016, we’ll review each of the Dirty Dozen with a quick review of what they accomplished in 2015 and what to expect in 2016. As a headway, just imagine the possibility of Cobb returning from injury mid-season to join their already loaded rotation. And imagine how much pressure someone like Snell will place on all starters to perform since he’s knocking on the door…

Next: First up is the Ace of the staff at #1