Rays Navigate Left-Handed Relief Puzzle After Trades
The Tampa Bay Rays entered the 2026 season facing a familiar challenge: building a competitive roster while simultaneously focusing on the future. Recent trades involving Brandon Lowe and Shane Baz have undeniably shifted the team’s landscape and a key area of focus has become bolstering the left-handed pitching options. The departure of Mason Montgomery in the Lowe trade highlighted an existing need, one the Rays have been addressing through a series of moves.
A Thin Left-Handed Pen in 2025
During the 2025 season, the Rays relied on only four left-handed pitchers: Ian Seymour, Garrett Cleavinger, Mason Montgomery, and Joe Rock. With Montgomery now in Pittsburgh, the situation demanded attention. Seymour is currently projected to begin the season in Durham, while Cleavinger is expected to compete for a spot in the Rays’ bullpen, though he has also been mentioned in trade discussions. Rock’s limited role last season suggests a potential transition to relief pitching, but he’s currently competing for a starting position alongside Seymour.
Adding Arms: Matz and Minor League Signings
The Rays have proactively addressed the left-handed pitching shortage, bringing in veteran Steven Matz on a Major League deal. Matz is anticipated to be a significant contributor to the starting rotation. Supplementing Matz, the Rays also signed John Rooney and Cam Booser to minor league contracts, adding depth to the system.
The Incredible Journey of Cam Booser
While Matz provides immediate stability, the story of Cam Booser is particularly compelling. Booser’s path to the majors is anything but conventional. After years of battling injuries – including a broken femur, a fractured vertebra, Tommy John surgery, and an elbow scope – and a stint away from baseball working as a carpenter, Booser resurrected his career through Driveline and the independent leagues.
From Carpentry to the Big Leagues
Booser’s unexpected velocity – hitting 98 mph on a Rapsodo machine after years away from the game – caught the attention of scouts. He spent time with the Chicago Dogs before signing with the Arizona Diamondbacks and eventually making his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox in 2024. He pitched in 43 games for the Red Sox, compiling a 3.38 ERA. After a less successful 2025 season with the Chicago White Sox, the Rays signed him to a minor league deal, offering another opportunity to reach the majors.
Booser’s Potential Role with the Rays
Given the current roster composition, Booser has a legitimate chance to make the Rays’ Opening Day roster. His performance during spring training, alongside that of Garrett Cleavinger and Joe Rock, will be crucial. Even if he doesn’t initially break camp with the major league team, he’s a strong candidate to contribute to the Rays’ pitching staff later in the 2026 season.
What Does This Mean for the Rays’ Future?
The Rays’ moves signal a commitment to both competitiveness and long-term sustainability. Addressing the left-handed pitching need, even with a player like Booser who has overcome significant obstacles, demonstrates the organization’s willingness to explore unconventional paths to success. The combination of established veterans like Matz and intriguing prospects provides a balanced approach as the Rays navigate the 2026 season and beyond.
FAQ
Q: Why did the Rays trade Brandon Lowe and Shane Baz?
A: The Rays traded Lowe and Baz to acquire prospects and build for the future, acknowledging that the trades might make the 2026 season more challenging.
Q: Who is Cam Booser?
A: Cam Booser is a left-handed pitcher with an incredible backstory, overcoming numerous injuries and a career change to reach the major leagues.
Q: Will Steven Matz be a starter for the Rays?
A: Yes, Steven Matz is expected to be an integral part of the Rays’ starting rotation.
Q: What is the Rays’ strategy with left-handed pitching?
A: The Rays are focused on building depth and versatility in their left-handed pitching corps, utilizing a mix of veterans and developing prospects.
