1 month ago
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By winning their first AL East title since 2021, the Tampa Bay Rays have booked an automatic ticket to the ALDS.
Tampa Bay has been a top-three team in the American League this season.
However, they will be without one of their veteran starting pitchers in the first round of the postseason.
According to Marc Topkin of The Tampa Bay Times, left-hander Shane McClanahan will not be available to pitch in the ALDS.
"Cash said LH Shane McClanahan (left forearm tightness) is not in play for the ALDS roster, but not ruled out for later rounds," Topkin wrote on X. "LH Garrett Cleavinger (forearm tightness) and RH Tyler Wells (forearm tightness) are progressing and could be ALDS options."
Even without McClanahan, the Rays' starting rotation is set up nicely for the playoffs.
Drew Rasmussen is likely to start Game 1 of the ALDS, followed by Nick Martinez and Freddy Peralta.
Griffin Jax and Ian Seymour are also options for later rounds or a potential Game 4.
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McClanahan posted a 3.36 ERA and struck out a career-low 21.8% of batters faced in 24 starts this season.
He missed the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John Surgery, and a nerve issue in his triceps during spring forced him out for the following year.
The Rays are a better team with McClanahan than without him, but the pitching staff is strong enough to advance without his availability.
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