Rays Roundtable: Starting Rotation, Shortstop Concerns and World Series Expectations

The Tampa Bay Rays struck out on end of season awards after failing to grasp their first World Series in franchise history this past month. 

As they look to put some bad news behind them, all eyes are on free agency and building the best roster to be able to return to the Fall Classic in 2027. On this week's Rays Roundtable, the staff discusses the end of season awards, roster construction and the teams biggest needs entering winter meetings.

Michael Brauner: These awards are so subjective. Yes, Cash had a great case, and nobody would have made a huge fuss had he won, but what Venable did with a team that is a couple of years removed from one of the worst seasons in history is incredible.

Christian Rauh: I certainly believe so. Cash deserved to win the award after leading Tampa Bay to 98 victories and the best record in the American League. However, it's difficult to argue against what Venable accomplished in Chicago. Both managers had impressive seasons, but considering the Rays expectations entering the year, Cash had just as strong of an argument.

Michael Brauner: Tampa needs guys who can eat innings and give production. This team will never be in at the top of the market for starting pitching, but someone like Martinez last year would be great. 

Christian Rauh: I think bringing back Martinez should be one of Tampa Bay's biggest priorities this offseason. The Rays need dependable starting pitching, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding their rotation. The price most likely makes more sense, too.

Michael Brauner: Walls should be involved, but perhaps in a platoon with someone who can produce more on offense. 

Christian Rauh: Tampa Bay needs to explore other options at shortstop. His defense remains valuable, but the Rays can't continue sacrificing consistent offensive production at such an important position. Use him to install a one-year platoon that acts as a stopgap until, hopefully, players like Grady Emerson are ready to fight for a roster spot.  

Michael Brauner: Simpson is probably limited in terms of a ceiling due to his lack of power. Caminero, on the other hand, is a bona fide superstar and could take the next step as the best hitter in the American League.

Christian Rauh: I'm going with Simpson. Caminero has already established himself as one of baseball's best young players, but I believe Simpson has another level he can reach offensively. It may not be power, but he's found a unique way to make himself valuable.

Michael Brauner: Replacing the production in the rotation. It doesn't have to mean signing Martinez and holding onto Rasmussen, and as always, it will be in the aggregate. But Neander must replace that production.

Christian Rauh: Tampa Bay needs to address its offensive production, particularly at shortstop. The rotation is certainly important, but the slumps that occurred this summer were due to poor offense.