Right-handed reliever Edwin Uceta experienced discomfort in his right shoulder while preparing for the upcoming season with the Tampa Bay Rays, raising concerns about his health just before opening day. Uceta, who had withdrawn from the World Baseball Classic due to shoulder soreness, felt uneasy during a recent throwing session in Port Charlotte, Fla.
Rays manager Kevin Cash acknowledged the issue, saying,
“He was fine, and as he got deeper, (throwing at) more distance, didn’t feel great,”
before adding,
“We’ll probably let a doctor look at him and see where it’s at.”
This development places uncertainty on Uceta’s readiness as the season approaches.
Background on Uceta’s Career and Recent Developments
Uceta appeared in 70 relief games for the Rays last season, posting a 10-3 win-loss record with a 3.70 ERA. The 28-year-old right-hander secured a salary increase to $1,525,000 this offseason after winning his arbitration case, surpassing Tampa Bay‘s initial offer of $1.2 million. Originally signed as a free agent by Tampa Bay before the 2024 season, Uceta has also pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and New York Mets in previous years.
Initially slated to represent the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, Uceta withdrew after developing discomfort in his shoulder prior to reporting for spring training. With Pete Fairbanks now a free agent signing with Miami, Uceta was viewed as a potential candidate to step into the Rays’ closer role.
Additional Team Updates and Season Outlook
In other team news, the Rays have named All-Star right-hander Drew Rasmussen as their opening-day starter for the March 26 game in St. Louis. Rasmussen finished last year with a 10-5 record and a 2.76 ERA over 31 starts, marking a successful return after multiple elbow surgeries including two Tommy John procedures and a recent internal brace operation.
Notably, the season opener in St. Louis holds significance for Rasmussen, as it is the location where he made his pitching comeback nearly 15 months ago. In that August 7, 2024, game, he threw two scoreless innings to close out the contest, signaling his recovery progress.
Implications for the Rays’ Bullpen and Season
Edwin Uceta’s shoulder condition will be closely monitored, given his potential role as the Rays’ primary closer following Pete Fairbanks’ departure. Should the injury persist, the team might face challenges solidifying its bullpen. Meanwhile, Rasmussen’s health and leadership at the top of the rotation remain key factors as Tampa Bay aims to build on last season’s successes.
