Former Rays' brief postseason star signs with Atlantic League

California native Jordan Luplow made a very short cameo with the Tampa Bay Rays during his seven-year major league career. The former third round pick appeared in only 25 regular season games for the Rays in 2021, but his impact was certainly present, especially during their shortened playoff run. The 31-year old outfielder has now signed a deal to play for the High Point Rockers of the Atlantic League.

Jordan Luplow was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2014 draft out of Fresno State University. The youngster thrived in his junior year of college, slashing .377/.475/.609 with 31 extra-base hits. After signing with the Pirates, Luplow was able to made quick work of their minor league system as he made his MLB debut after only three seasons.

However, the right-handed outfielder struggled in 64 games with the Pirates, resulting in a trade to Cleveland following the 2018 season. Luplow flourished with his new club at first, notching his best season in 2019. The 25-year old slugger hit .276 with 15 home runs in 85 games.

However, the downfall of the Guardians' slugger forced them to send him in a trade deadline deal to Tampa Bay. The Rays welcomed Luplow with open arms as they were on the heels of their fourth AL East division title. and could use some reinforcements to finish the job. Their key rental piece made 72 plate appearances to close out the 2021 season, slashing .246/.319/.477 with four home runs and 8 RBIs.

His most memorable moments in a Rays uniform came during the Rays' playoff run. After winning 100 games and finishing atop the daunting AL East, they were fortunate to receive a bye into the ALDS. The Boston Red Sox completed a Wild Card series victory over their long-time rival Yankees and met the talented Rays for another AL East matchup.

Although it was the only series that he was a part of, Jordan Luplow made the most of his at-bats against the Red Sox. He finished the series with a .286 average and two extra-base hits. One of those was an enormous go-ahead grand slam off of notorious left-handed ace, Chris Sale. That blast brought about arguably the loudest roar Tropicana Field has ever heard, as the Rays took a pivotal 5-2 lead over their rivals.

Despite that incredible moment, the Rays would end up losing the game and series (3-1) against Boston. It was a disappointing finish for a very promising club coming off of a World Series appearance the year prior. Nonetheless, we have the pleasure of recalling Jordan Luplow's time with the Rays and we wish him the best on his new team.