The Rays' spring training has been relatively smooth sailing so far. The team has managed to avoid any major injury setbacks, with their expected rotation progressing as planned and most of the starting lineup already set.
However, the bullpen remains a bit uncertain. Middle reliever Steven Wilson is starting the season on the injured list due to a back issue, and right-hander Edwin Uceta has been sidelined with shoulder inflammation.
While Uceta is playing catch without problems, he’s unlikely to be ready by Opening Day. Fortunately, his absence doesn’t seem to be long-term, and he should be back in action soon.
Uceta’s potential stint on the injured list opens up a spot in the bullpen. The Rays have three key relievers locked in for high-leverage situations: Garrett Cleavinger, Griffin Jax, and Bryan Baker.
Beyond them, the competition is wide open. Right-handers Cole Sulser and Yoendrys Gómez are out of minor league options, meaning they must make the team or risk being placed on waivers.
Gómez, acquired in an offseason trade with the White Sox, is a strong contender for a roster spot. His ability to pitch multiple innings adds to his value, especially since the Rays plan to carry several long relievers to support starters Shane McClanahan and Steven Matz.
McClanahan hasn’t pitched in the majors since 2023 due to injuries, and Matz is transitioning back to a starter role after a stint in the bullpen with the Cardinals and Red Sox last year. The Rays will be cautious with their workloads early in the season.
Last season, Gómez made nine starts in 21 appearances, pitching 62 2/3 innings. This spring, he’s shown promise, delivering five innings of two-run ball over four appearances before joining Venezuela for the World Baseball Classic. There, he impressed with two scoreless innings and three strikeouts against Nicaragua.
Despite Venezuela advancing to the quarterfinals, Gómez is back in Rays camp, aiming to secure his spot. Ian Seymour and Joe Boyle also present options for multiple innings out of the bullpen or as rotation depth at Triple-A Durham.
Joe Rock, a left-hander, served as a multi-inning reliever last season. He pitched 7 2/3 innings of two-run ball in his first three big league appearances but struggled in Triple-A with a 5.21 ERA over 96 2/3 innings.
This year, Rock is starting back in Durham, transitioning to a short relief role. In Spring Training, he struck out nine and allowed only three hits and one run over five appearances, despite issuing six walks.
As the Rays finalize their roster, the bullpen configuration will be a key area to watch, with several pitchers vying for those final spots.