Rays Dirty Dozen: SP Depth Leads Rays into 2016

June 18, 2012; Omaha, NE, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Ryne Stanek (55) throws against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the second inning of game eight of the 2012 College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports

RHP Ryne Stanek – 24 years old

He isn’t well known outside of the more knowledgable Rays fans, but Stanek has the stuff and experience to help the Rays out if needed in 2016. He’s been particularly effective as a starter and although the walks are worrisome, a good half-season of work on that front in AA could get him ready for a look if needed. For him to get to that point, however, he’d need to outmatch the others on this list which seems unlikely. However, if they don’t get the call – for whatever reason – or falter when they do, Stanek should be able to step in and provide the depth the Rays need.

We recently ranked Stanek as the 24th best Rays prospect and profiled him in-depth. What makes him a prominent piece for 2016 is that he was able to end the year (last 90 days) with a .204/.316/.327 line against and a total line against vs RHB of .182/.269/.263. Both of those aspects are what he’ll build on when starting the 2016 season and both should put him in the conversation for action in Tampa in 2016 or 2017 at the latest.

Next: Wild thing is the last on the MLB ready list at #12