Rays right-handed pitcher Edwin Uceta is scheduled for medical testing after experiencing early shoulder discomfort during spring camp, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. The 28-year-old had intended to pitch for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, but those plans were canceled when manager Kevin Cash described Uceta’s right shoulder as “cranky.” Despite resting the injury, Uceta felt uneasy attempting to throw, with Cash noting that he “didn’t feel great” during a recent throwing session.
Career Journey and Recent Performance Highlights
Before joining the Tampa Bay Rays on a minor league contract during the 2023-24 offseason, Uceta had stints with four organizations: the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Mets, and Cubs. Prior to arriving in Tampa Bay, his major league career included a 5.80 earned run average over 40⅓ innings. However, the Rays’ advanced pitch lab technology helped unlock the potential in the hard-throwing right-hander.
Uceta’s 2024 season was a breakout year, finishing with an impressive 1.51 ERA over 41⅔ innings, striking out 35.8% of batters faced, while limiting walks to just 5%. Though his 2025 campaign was not as dominant, he still led the team with 76 relief innings, posting a respectable 3.79 ERA. His strikeout rate remained strong at 32.1%, while his walk rate rose to about 8.4%, closer to league average.
Role and Impact on the Rays Bullpen
Overall, Uceta has compiled a 2.98 ERA with excellent strikeout and walk rates in 113⅔ innings pitched for Tampa Bay. His emergence has placed him in crucial late-game situations, highlighted by six saves and 28 holds over two seasons. With longtime closer Pete Fairbanks no longer with the team, Uceta had been among the leading candidates to assume ninth-inning closing responsibilities under manager Kevin Cash’s leadership.
Injury’s Effect on Team Strategy and Future Outlook
Currently, Uceta’s shoulder discomfort has paused his spring training progression as the Rays await further medical assessment. Should the injury prove minor, he could still step into the closer role as anticipated. However, uncertainty around his health has ripple effects on Tampa Bay’s bullpen management, including trade considerations involving left-hander Garrett Cleavinger. Cleavinger has gained attention as a reliable late-inning reliever, but the Rays might hesitate to trade him if Uceta faces a prolonged absence.
This situation underscores the delicate balance of bullpen depth for Tampa Bay as the team navigates an uncertain start to the season. How long Uceta will be sidelined remains the key question, with implications for his role and the Rays’ roster moves in the near term.
“He’s been resting that shoulder and attempted to play catch today but didn’t feel great when he did so.” ?Kevin Cash, Rays Manager
#Rays high-leverage RH reliever Edwin Uceta tested his "cranky" shoulder today and "didn't feel great" the longer he played catch, Cash said. Uceta is headed to see a doctor.
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) February 19, 2026
