Pitching Matchup for the Rays
The Atlanta club has arranged a strategic spring training matchup against the Tampa Bay Rays, with two key starting pitchers scheduled to take the mound. Chris Sale is slated to start the game, while AJ Smith-Shawver will follow his performance. This revised schedule adjusts plans by moving Smith-Shawver from his original assignment against the Philadelphia Phillies, with reliever Hector Neris set to begin that contest instead.
Preparation for Opening Day
This adjusted rotation comes as part of a broader strategy to give Sale additional rest ahead of his Opening Day start on March 27. There is also consideration to deploy Smith-Shawver in the series opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers, which may solidify his role in the season-long rotation. While the initial plan had Ian Anderson and Grant Holmes earmarked as the fourth and fifth starters, recent developments have favored Smith-Shawver’s standing in the pitching hierarchy.
Spring Training Performance
Chris Sale has delivered solid numbers in the Grapefruit League, posting a 3.52 ERA with a 0.85 WHIP and accumulating 15 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings over four appearances. Despite a challenging start on March 10, his overall performance has been efficient and controlled. Smith-Shawver, who has logged 12 innings over four outings, has maintained a respectable 3.75 ERA. His command over his pitches is a major strength, as evidenced by his ability to consistently find the strike zone while issuing just three walks in spring training. In contrast, Ian Anderson has struggled with control, issuing more walks than innings pitched, a statistic that raises concerns for his future usage.
Outlook for the Regular Season
With these rotations taking shape early in spring training, the focus remains on refining preparation for the regular season. Both Sale and Smith-Shawver are being closely monitored for their ability to adjust and build on their spring performances. Their work now will be crucial in setting the stage for a strong start when the season officially begins.