Rays' newest addition makes presence felt in finale vs Padres

The Rays completed a trade with the Chicago White Sox to acquire speedy outfielder Travis Jankowski. The deal was executed due in part by the multitude of injuries for the Rays outfield depth, but the front office also admires the 33-year old's style of play. He is a defense-first type of player with stolen base potential. The kind of athlete that the Rays have been attracted to in recent years, as they appear to be building a more traditional lineup.

Jankowski played in 104 games last season with the Texas Rangers. The Pennsylvania native slashed .200/.266/.242 and recorded only 38 hits, including six extra-base hits. His offensive abilities aren't his speciality as he's only managed to accrue 11 home runs in his entire career. The Rays snagged the veteran outfielder for his defensive prowess.

Jankowski has displayed some very impressive web gems throughout his time in the big leagues, including a walk-off home run robbery against his former team, the Chicago White Sox. Also, the experience that he's achieved so far has given him something the Rays certainly admire.

In 2023, the lanky center fielder played a major role in the Rangers World Series run. He hit .263 with 30 RBIs that season, but his postseason stats were most impressive. Jankowski hit .333 in seven playoff appearances on his road to a championship ring.

Now, as a member of the Rays, Travis Jankowski is humbled to reset on a new and competitive club. In his first start in Navy blue, he was placed in left field for the San Diego finale. Jankowksi went 2-for-4 with a run and a hustle double in the top of the 9th.

It was a tad surprising to see the veteran outfielder up on the big league club so quickly, but the Rays trusted his ability to help them out immediately. In response to his addition to the 40-man roster and the active roster, Tampa Bay sent ace starter Shane McClanahan to the 60-day injured list and demoted middle infielder Coco Montes back to Triple-A Durham. Hopefully, Jankowski can continue his supportive production, so that he can remain on the big league roster.