FORT MYERS - Rays fans, there's some promising news on the horizon. Edwin Uceta is back with a ball in hand, and while there's no exact return date, it's a step in the right direction.
The late-inning reliever took to the mound at Charlotte Sports Park for the first time since arriving at camp with shoulder discomfort. Manager Kevin Cash expressed optimism, saying, “Very encouraged by that.”
Uceta, 28, is focusing on building up his arm strength over the next 10 days. If all goes well, he could be joining the Triple-A Durham Bulls just as their season kicks off on March 27, with hopes of returning to the Rays bullpen by early to mid-April. The right-hander from the Dominican Republic had to pull out of the World Baseball Classic after an MRI revealed an impingement, leading to a cortisone shot in late February.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Aranda is back from the World Baseball Classic and eager to play. After returning Thursday night and taking a day off, he was ready to hit the field on Saturday, even if it meant a bus ride to Fort Myers.
“He was adamant,” Cash said. “We’re happy he’s back, we missed him.”
Aranda shone for Mexico in the WBC, hitting .357 over four games. His standout moment?
A clutch three-run homer in the eighth inning against Great Britain in Houston, with 10 family members cheering him on. Reflecting on the moment, Aranda said, “Honestly, I was kind of in the moment, just doing my thing up at-bat.”
Ryan Vilade, who’s been with five organizations and made it to the majors with four different teams, might have his best shot at an opening-day roster with the Rays. Acquired from the Reds in November, Vilade is seen as a versatile right-handed bat.
“When someone trades for you, it’s always a good thing,” Vilade noted. His ability to play multiple positions, including left and right field, as well as second and first base, could be crucial for the Rays.
Justyn-Henry Malloy made an impact in Saturday’s 9-6 win against the Twins with a tiebreaking double and single. He’s tied for third on the team with five RBIs this spring.
The Rays also saw impressive performances from some minor-leaguers. Catcher Kenny Piper threw out a baserunner and hit a three-run homer, while Xavier Isaac and Brailer Guerrero contributed with hits and stolen bases.
“Kenny Piper, X, Brailer, these guys are starting to make some good impressions,” Cash commented.
Jake Woodford, a St. Pete native, started the game with two shutout innings, boasting a 1.23 ERA with five strikeouts in 7 ⅓ innings. His performance is making a strong case for a multi-inning role in the bullpen.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Rays and other Tampa Bay sports!