Rays' Relievers Deliver in 2025 Despite Missing Playoffs
While the Tampa Bay Rays fell short of the playoffs in 2025, their bullpen was a bright spot throughout the season. Several Rays relievers emerged as dominant forces, providing a glimpse of the team's bright future.
Breakout Performances in the Pen
Right-hander Edwin Uceta was a revelation for the Rays after a slow start. Over his final 30 appearances, Uceta was one of the most dominant relievers in baseball, flashing elite strikeout stuff. Teammate Griffin Jax also took a major step forward, earning consideration for the closer role going into 2026.
Veteran Cole Sulser and newcomer Bryan Baker solidified the late-inning relief corps, with Baker potentially in line to take over as the Rays' closer if current stopper Pete Fairbanks is traded this offseason. Garrett Cleavinger also emerged as a reliable setup option, posting strong underlying numbers.
The Future is Bright in Tampa
Despite the team's overall struggles, the performance of the Rays' bullpen provides optimism for the future. With Uceta, Jax, Sulser, and others set to return, Tampa Bay's relief unit could be a major strength in 2026 as the team aims to bounce back and contend in the tough AL East.
TL;DR
- Several Rays relievers had breakout seasons in 2025, including Edwin Uceta, Griffin Jax, Cole Sulser, and Bryan Baker
- The strong bullpen was a bright spot for Tampa Bay despite the team missing the playoffs
- The Rays' relief corps could be a major strength in 2026 as the team looks to rebound