Rays are given surprisingly awful Opening Day Power Ranking position

The daunting AL East sports four clubs in the top 10 of this year's Opening Day Power Rankings. That leaves the Rays on the outside looking in despite a jam-packed offseason. The addition of Cedric Mullins and the bolstering of the pitching staff via Steven Matz and Nick Martinez didn't push the needle for MLB.com. Well, it didn't help that Tampa Bay went 77-85 in 2025 and finished with the 21st best record in the majors.

Rays are placed at No. 23 in MLB.com's Opening Day Power Rankings

The Rays dropped one spot from No. 22 in last season's Power Rankings. Therefore, the writers believed that their offseason likely made them a worse team for the upcoming season. It would be too easy to agree right away, so let's analyze the major additions and subtractions of this exciting offseason.

Undoubtedly, the greatest loss of this offseason was long-time Rays' infielder Brandon Lowe. Lowe was sent to the Pirates as the NL Central club looks to bolster their offense around Cy Young winner Paul Skenes.

Another major loss was former first round pick Shane Baz. He was beginning to get his feet under him after struggling with injuries throughout his minor league tenure. However, the 26-year-old's 4.87 ERA last season was not the consistency the Rays were looking for from their potential ace. The Orioles snatched his services at the cost of four highly touted prospects.

Lastly, the Rays had to say goodbye to a fan favorite in Josh Lowe. The 6'3 outfielder was dealt to the Angels in a 3-team deal that saw them receive their much-needed Brandon Lowe replacement. Similarly to Baz, Josh Lowe unfortunately had a difficult time with consistency and avoiding injuries. On Opening Day a season ago, the former top prospect strained his right oblique running to first base. It was a difficult sight for Rays' fans, but many expected to contribute to the Rays for a long time.

The additions for the Rays were significant. Cedric Mullins and Jake Fraley will be a necessary revamp of the outfield. Gavin Lux is a solid replacement for Brandon Lowe, but he has big shoes to fill in the power department. Veteran hurlers Steven Matz and Nick Martinez will likely be enormous additions to a young and inexperience pitching staff.