Rays fans hold their breath after ace Shane McClanahan exits start early

Tampa Bay Rays fans are currently on the edge of their seat as they await a clear update on their beloved ace Shane McClanahan. At the beginning of spring training, McClanahan was awarded the assignment of Opening Day starter, but that role appears to be in jeopardy after today's news. The Cape Coral native left this afternoon's contest after 2 1/3 innings of scoreless baseball.

On his first delivery to Red Sox top infield prospect Kristian Campbell, McClanahan visibly expressed pain in his pitching arm. He left the game with the athletic trainer and everyone at the stadium held their breath for an update on his condition.

A few innings later, Rays on-field reporter Ryan Bass informed viewers of McClanahan's injury. He suffered left tricep tightness which should be handled cautiously, especially after his Tommy John surgery last year. However, it is frustrating because the competitive starting pitcher has worked very hard to get back to the mound and have a chance to pitch on Opening Day.

Kevin Cash will certainly play it safe with their coveted left-hander, so a different Rays hurler will have to toe the rubber against the Rockies on March 28th. Who will that pitcher be? Cash mentioned that all five of them are up for the task, but clearly one of them will need to be chosen in the near future.

If they base their decision off of seniority and experience, then Drew Rasmussen would be the best man to take over on Opening Day. If they base it off of consistency, then Zack Littell or even Ryan Pepiot could get the ball. And if they base it off of pure talent, then Taj Bradley could be chosen.

We believe that Pepiot and Bradley are too inexperienced to start the season against the NL West club. Littell's spring has proven a possible degradation this season, as he's posted a 6.94 ERA in three starts. Therefore, the most likely choice will be 29-year old righty Drew Rasmussen. The absence of McClanahan will be felt, but Rasmussen has the tools to put together a winning ballgame.

On the bright side, the Rays offense was on fire today as they collected 14 runs on 20 hits against the AL rival Red Sox. Their team performance was highlighted by 3-hit games from Jose Caballero and Jonathan Aranda. Obviously, the news about Shane McClanahan really hurts, but this club has displayed resiliency and depth, so they should be capable of holding of their own until he returns.