3 Rays offseason decisions that already look genius

An MLB offseason is filled with tough decisions from the team's front office. Some are riskier than others and some actually play out better than anyone could've expected. Tampa Bay isn't known for executing the high-value free agent signings, but they still carry out their fair share of transactions to aid in the development of their club. Let's analyze three decisions that have gone their way early into this season.

1. Picking up Brandon Lowe's option

The first transaction the Rays made after the Dodgers were crowned as champions was choosing to pick up Brandon Lowe's option for the 2025 season. This may have been the wisest decision that was made throughout the offseason and most Rays fans may have forgotten about it. Regardless, the franchise second baseman will play at least one more season in Tampa Bay and we couldn't be more thrilled.

The 30-year old middle infielder has been on an absolute tear in the Rays first eight games of the season. He's slashing .313/.353/.594 with three home runs and seven RBIs. His home run total is currently tied for seventh in the American League. As an entire team, the Rays only have five homers, so it's clear that B. Lowe's offense is prevalent in this lineup.

Loyal fans know the immense potential that this veteran second baseman can aspire to if he's stay off the injured list. In 2021, he matched Aaron Judge's total with a whopping 39 homers. With the dimensions of their new friendly confines, don't be shocked if Brandon Lowe flirts with numbers like those again this season.

2. Mason Englert signing

The Rays signed 25-year old reliever Mason Englert after he was DFA'd by the Tigers on February 7th. It was the second signing this past offseason of a DFA'd Tigers relief pitcher as the Rays also acquired right-hander Alex Faedo. The expectations were higher for Faedo, but Englert certainly rose to the occasion.

In six spring innings, the Texas native gave up only three hits and two runs. His impressive mix of a mid 90's fastball and deceiving changeup led him to join the Opening Day roster. His consistency has continued as the righty has tossed three regular season innings, giving up only three hits and one earned run to go along with four strikeouts.

3. Trading Jose Siri

The loss of Jose Siri wasn't necessarily a reason to celebrate as his electric style of play was entertaining, to say the least. However, that deal with the Mets opened up an opportunity for a long-time minor leaguer that just needed a chance to prove himself at the highest level. Gritty outfielder Jake Mangum was added to the 40-man roster to replace Siri's vacancy. His impact has been tremendous for this club in the early stages of the 2025 campaign.

Not only is the Mississippi native an energy booster on and off the field, but he's been the most dependable hitter on this team. In 19 at-bats, Mangum is hitting .474 with two doubles, four RBIs, and only two strikeouts. His inspiring abilities also follow him to the outfield where he makes every hustle play and gives 110% effort.