MLB rumors: Bellinger extension, Rays target a pitcher, Dodgers struggling infielder
By Josh Wilson
Rays have pitching need and have a target already
According to Marc Tompkins, the Tampa Bay Rays are losing Drew Rasmussen for the remainder of the season, as he’s undergoing an InternalBrace installation surgery.
Some news: #Rays Rasmussen will be out until middle of next season, will have surgery soon to have internal brace installed. Team was hoping he could return this season.
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) July 8, 2023
This is the third surgery for Rasmussen who also underwent Tommy John surgery in 2016 and 2017,as ESPN points out. He pitched eight games this season to the tune of a 2.62 ERA and 1.052 WHIP. He has been on the 60-day IL since mid-May, and now he’ll be out for the season.
The Rays, who were likely already looking for a pitcher, are even more firmly in the competitive market for a pitcher via a signing. Chris Flexen is catching the Rays’ eye already according to Topkin, and H/T to MLB Trade Rumors.
Flexen’s stat sheet will likely give Rays fans some pause. He has posted a 7-plus ERA and a 1.857 WHIP. He started four games this year, including a 10-hit and 9-hit outing. Flexen was acquired from the Mariners by the Mets and released immediately.
Flexen is still available on the open market and a low-risk signing for a team like the Rays who might need the pitching but feel they can’t be competitive in the trade market where plenty of other teams are looking for the same thing.
It would surely be a project for the Rays, but perhaps one worth taking on given the fact that they now know they will be without Rasmussen.