Rays outfielder off to very unlucky start, returns to IL with second injury of 2025

Rays fans couldn't be more excited to watch the high-energy utility man Richie Palacios get to work this season. However, the New York City native suffered a minor finger injury during spring training. When he finally returned from this slight setback, something more serious would come up, but not before the 27-year old proved his worth to this starving lineup.

Palacios had a respectable spring, reaching base more than 30% of his at-bats and recording three extra-base hits. The Rays were most excited to employ his versatility in the field as Caballero and Palacios emerged as the key utility players out of camp. His diverse ability to play both the infield and outfield at any time makes him more valuable than the average baseball player.

Therefore, the original injury hit the club's roster depth hard, but all negative things can bring good. Star players such as Jake Mangum and Kameron Misner have been given the chance to shine as a result of injuries to Josh Lowe, Richie Palacios, and Jonny DeLuca. Despite this unexpected success, the Rays would like to combine all of their talent to help them improve on their 9-13 start.

The mutual excitement around Richie Palacios' return to the lineup was clear as he re-joined the club on April 17th, just in time for a 4-game series against his former hometown team, the New York Yankees. The left-handed slugger capitalized on his adrenaline with a 3-for-4 game against the division leaders. Palacios also collected a double among his three hits and a stolen base. The heart and hustle of this charismatic athlete was on full display.

There was no sign of his wound during his lone game of 2025, but regardless, the outfielder was placed on the IL once more with a right knee sprain. It's probable that the injury occurred during one of his hard fought head-first slides. Either way, it's a difficult pill to swallow for Tampa Bay and the Palacios family. Speedy Chandler Simpson has been called up in response to this injury. Kevin Cash is hoping that his elite baserunning and contact skills can make up for the loss of Richie Palacios.