Rays’ Redemption: Anticipating a Stellar 2025 Season
Any Rays fan will tell you that the 2024 season was one to forget. Despite finishing with a barely losing record at 80-82, the Rays’ streak of five straight postseason appearances came to an end, and their offense struggled. However, as the dust settles, hope looms large on the horizon for Rays baseball in 2025. Here are five compelling reasons why the Rays are poised for a remarkable comeback.
Full Year of Junior Caminero
The highly anticipated first full season of rising star Junior Caminero is set to grace the 2025 season. Fans have eagerly awaited this moment ever since his brief seven-game appearance in 2023. Injuries sidelined him for a significant portion of 2024, but Caminero is now primed to take on the role of the everyday third baseman for the Rays. The 21-year-old infielder is projected to make a substantial impact, with expectations to hit around .260 and deliver about 30 home runs. Such a performance would provide a significant boost to the team’s struggling offense.
Return of Shane McClanahan
After a period of absence due to a Tommy John surgery-induced injury, Shane McClanahan is set to make his comeback. The left-handed ace, boasting a career 3.02 ERA, is expected to bolster the Rays’ pitching staff significantly. Alongside former first-round pick McClanahan, Kevin Cash has at his disposal a cadre of talented starters, forming one of the premier rotations in the American League.
Healthy Josh Lowe
The performance of outfielder Josh Lowe often mirrors the Rays’ success. In 2023, a healthy J. Lowe showcased his potential by producing a 3.7 WAR with a slash line of .292/.335/.500 and 20 home runs. His stellar performance contributed to the team’s 99 wins that season. If the 27-year-old can replicate his success from 2023, the Rays are poised for marked improvement in the upcoming season.
New Offensive Additions
Addressing significant deficiencies in their offensive lineup from the previous season, the Rays made strategic moves to strengthen key positions. By signing veteran catcher Danny Jansen and skilled shortstop Ha-Seong Kim, the team aimed to fortify their weakest spots.
In 2024, Rays catchers struggled with a mere .192 batting average, while shortstops fared marginally better at .212. Jansen’s addition may not single-handedly transform the offense, but it represents a step in the right direction. Kim, with a career slash line of .242/.326/.380, is expected to provide a substantial offensive boost for the Rays.
Enhanced Pitching Depth
Recognizing the importance of pitching depth, the Rays’ front office diligently focused on fortifying their staff, particularly the bullpen. Notable additions such as Eric Orze, Mike Vasil, Joe Boyle, and others were brought in to enhance the team’s pitching arsenal.
After concluding the 2024 season with a top-5 bullpen ranking in the American League, the Rays are poised to further solidify their pitching strength in 2025. With a wealth of pitching talent at their disposal, including the newly acquired arms, the Rays are well-positioned to continue their success on the mound.
As the 2025 season unfolds, the Rays appear primed for a resurgent campaign, backed by a blend of emerging talents, returning stars, and strategic acquisitions. With the pieces falling into place, anticipation runs high for a triumphant return to form for this resilient team.
