The Tampa Bay Rays have placed their star pitcher, Shane McClanahan, on the 15-day injured list due to mid-back tightness, according to a club announcement. McClanahan, a left-handed ace, reported the tightness after two consecutive shortened starts. In response, the Rays have recalled left-hander Jalen Beeks to fill the void.
Despite the injury setback, McClanahan has had an exceptional season thus far, boasting a 2.53 ERA through 17 starts. However, his recent shortened outings, during which he allowed a total of six runs over 6 2/3 innings, have raised concerns. With a 3.85 FIP and a high 88% strand rate, some regression may be on the horizon for the young lefty.
Fortunately, McClanahan may only miss one start due to the upcoming All-Star break, provided his injury requires just a minimal stay on the injured list. The pitcher himself expressed confidence in the minor nature of the issue, stating that the decision to place him on the IL was aimed at preparing him for the second half of the season.
Taking McClanahan’s place on the roster is Jalen Beeks, who struggled earlier in the season. In 25 games, including seven starts as an opener, Beeks struggled with a 5.87 ERA, performing 30% below the league average. While his 3.57 xERA and 4.37 FIP indicate that he may have pitched slightly better than his results suggest, Beeks is by no means a direct replacement for McClanahan.
With the trade deadline approaching, McClanahan’s injury, along with those of Jeffrey Springs and Drew Rasmussen, highlights the Rays’ need for pitching reinforcements. General Manager Peter Bendix recently acknowledged this need, stating that the front office would do everything possible to strengthen the roster in the coming weeks as they aim to secure their first World Series title in franchise history.
In the meantime, the Rays will rely on a four-man rotation consisting of Tyler Glasnow, Zach Eflin, Taj Bradley, and Yonny Chirinos leading up to the All-Star break later this month. The team hopes to address their pitching concerns and bolster their roster as they gear up for a strong second half of the season.
Overall, McClanahan’s absence presents a challenge for the Rays, but they remain optimistic about their prospects moving forward. With several meaningful games left to play, the team is determined to address the issue now to ensure McClanahan is fully ready for the crucial stretch ahead.
