3 Rays players we're already losing patience with after season's first week

After the first four series of the 2025 season, the Rays are a disappointing 5-7 and sit in fourth place in the AL East. They definitely have plenty of bright spots such as the long-time minor league call-up Jake Mangum who's shining in his first chance in the big leagues. However, we're going to focus on the negatives in this article. Here's the three players that Rays fans are already losing patience with this year.

1. Taylor Walls

The Rays starting shortstop Taylor Walls is off to a slow start offensively this season. However, his defense is still well above-average, as he's made multiple clutch plays that will never appear in the box score. It's still understandable that fans would ask for more productivity from his bat. The 28-year old middle infielder is currently hitting a miserable .143 on the young campaign which is actually worse than his .187 career average.

To make matters worse for Walls, former shortstop-turned-utility man, Jose Caballero is off to a solid start with a fabulous .400 OBP and clutch grand slam against the Angels. Also, the Rays newest free agent signing Ha-Seong Kim will likely take over as the Rays everyday shortstop in early May. So, where does that leave the defensive wizard?

2. Ben Rortvedt

Former Yankees backstop Ben Rortvedt was the Rays starting catcher a season ago. The 27-year old lefty has posted below-average numbers in his time as a major leaguer, but 2024 saw him hit over .200 for the first time in his career. Nonetheless, Rortvedt is currently 0-for-11 at the plate to start this season and Danny Jansen has taken the majority of the catching load. We figured that the two catchers would split time behind the dish, but Rortvedt may have a really short leash if his hitless streak continues.

3. Garrett Cleavinger

Garrett Cleavinger started his Rays tenure as one of the most reliable relief arms out of the bullpen. However, the former LA Dodger has started to trend downward in his production level. In 2024, the left-handed hurler's ERA reached a career high of 3.75 in 60 innings of work. Well, this year has actually begun on an even worse track. In his 3.2 innings, Cleavinger has accrued a 4.91 ERA, while giving up a home run and a hit-by-pitch in his short stint of play. If this type of play continues, then Rays fans may request his removal from the team, especially with the incredible depth that is waiting in Durham.