3 Rays position battles to tune into this spring training

Heading into the 2025 edition of spring training, the Rays are pretty much set on the majority of their positions, especially after the signings of catcher Danny Jansen and shortstop Ha-Seong Kim. However, there are three positional arrangements that are still up in the air, at least partially.

Starting rotation

The Rays starting rotation is looking deeper than it ever has going into this season. This creates the positive difficulty of deciding who those five or six starters will be. Obviously, ace left-hander Shane McClanahan is a lock at the top. Also, Ryan Pepiot, Shane Baz, and Taj Bradley have seemingly earned a role in this prominent staff. Although, Drew Rasmussen has expressed his interest in returning to the starting rotation and his resume outshines all three of those young up-and-coming hurlers.

Therefore, there are a few talented pitchers left off of the starting five for the time being. Rays 2024 WAR leader Zack Littell and newly acquired flamethrower Joe Boyle are on the outside looking in, unless one of them makes a move to the bullpen. Littell was formerly a reliever for the Giants, Twins, and Red Sox, so it wouldn't be a shock to return him to that role. Also, Boyle's history of high velocity and unpredictable command could be a recipe for a back-end reliever job.

Bullpen

Additions to the pitching depth was a major key to the Rays successful offseason. Success in spring training will be paramount for these relievers to earn a spot in this prestigious pen. There are few locks in this Tampa Bay bullpen, so you can rest assured that Pete Fairbanks, Edwin Uceta, and Garrett Cleavinger aren't going anywhere (unless they get hurt or traded of course). The rest of the spots are pretty much open to all competitors.

On the depth chart, Manuel Rodriguez, Hunter Bigge, Kevin Kelly, and former Tigers bulk pitcher Alex Faedo are probably favorites to join this loaded relief core come March. Relievers like changeup specialist Eric Orze, Mike Vasil, Cole Sulser, Joe Rock, and Ian Seymour will have to prove themselves this spring.

Left field

Center field and right field are all, but claimed for the season pending any unseen circumstances. Jonny DeLuca will take over in center and Josh Lowe will ultimately be the everyday guy in right. Left field gets a little interesting though.

The Rays are very fond of Christopher Morel's powerful swing, hence why they traded their only 2024 All-Star for him at the deadline. However, his defense is significantly weaker than DeLuca's and Lowe's.

The two other options at this corner outfield spot are currently utility-man Richie Palacios and possibly Jose Caballero if his shift to the outfield works out for both parties. This decision will certainly be determined by which player looks the most comfortable in that role, both at the plate and in the outfield.