The Tampa Bay Rays made a bullpen change after Wednesday’s extra-innings collapse against the Blue Jays, recalling Trevor Martin from Triple-A Durham and designating Aaron Brooks for assignment. Tampa Bay hopes the move stabilizes a bullpen that could be tested heavily during a six-game homestand.
The Tampa Bay Rays are having a great season so far, leading the AL East and holding a postseason spot in May already by a decent margin. However, in a full 162-game season, there are always ways to improve the roster.
On Friday, the team will look to do just that after announcing an anticipated roster move since Wednesday's series finale loss to the Toronto Blue Jays. The Rays announced that they have recalled right-handed pitcher Trevor Martin from Triple-A Durham and designated RHP Aaron Brooks for assignment.
Brooks was called up over the weekend after his recent stint in the Mexican League. He signed a minor league deal, and his first big league appearance since 2024 wasn't ideal. He was called into action during extra innings against the Blue Jays on Wednesday, walked two batters, and allowed a walkoff grand slam from Daulton Varsho.
As for Martin, he will make his second stint with the Rays this season after making three appearances with the squad before being optioned back to Triple-A on April 26th. In his last time with the big league club, the 25-year-old allowed six hits and three earned runs across 4.1 innings of work.
A potential roster move could still be in the works for the Rays, as they also announced that the 40-man roster has an open spot after designating Brooks for assignment. Tampa Bay will begin a six-game homestand Friday, hosting the Miami Marlins.
Jesse Scholtens will get the start for the Rays, his third of the season. In his last start, he allowed two home runs, which were enough for the Boston Red Sox to win 2-0. He surpassed 90 pitches for the second time this season, and going deep could be a great thing for the Rays, as the team's next off day is not until May 21st. His last quality start, however, came in 2023.
First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 PM EDT.