The regular season has crossed the 25% mark and there's an unexpected team at the top of the American League. The 28-13 Rays have the AL's best record and second-best mark in MLB behind the Braves. The Rays have a history of outperforming expectations, but some of the magic had seemed to wear off with sub-.500 finishes in each of the last two seasons.
Tampa Bay had a slightly busier free agent period than they typically do. They added Nick Martinez and Steven Matz, the latter on a two-year contract. They brought in Cedric Mullins on a reclamation deal. At the same time, they were closer to the "seller" end of their two biggest trades of the winter. They dealt Shane Baz to the Orioles for four prospects and a draft pick. They sent Brandon Lowe, Mason Montgomery and Jake Mangum to the Pirates for two more prospects. Gavin Lux was their most established trade pickup of the offseason, and he has been a complete non-factor due to various injures.
So how have the Rays gotten out to one of the best starts in franchise history? Are they resurrecting a small ball offensive approach in the modern game, and what should be the deadline focus for a team that'll enter the summer more clearly looking to add MLB talent than they have over the past couple seasons?
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Probably not but im rooting for them
Rays will get humbled a little tonight( then back to winning again )
Im not so sure, Cease is amazing this year, but the Rays players have fared well against him(roster has .391 xWOBA against him) and hopefully Jax can get through 5 tonight.
I wouldnt bet even money on it or anything, but think they have a real chance.
They’re 2nd in nl east with + run differential of 24 but in 1st un standings. Yankees 1st with + 76. Rays pitchers got them there, even same record as Atlanta who has more offense. If they add a bat, then definitely competing for 1st in weak nl east.
Citizen, It is the Al East, not the NL East
They prioritize having good athletes and maximize the utility of their athletic traits in multiple ways. It’s a brand of baseball that’s enjoyable to watch. I hope they continue to exceed expectations even if their style doesn’t create a trend.
Elite pitching with timely hits, great defense and stolen bases.. sounds like the typical Rays baseball
Love seeing all the broke boys that cant read the article chiming in on the article lol