The Tampa Bay Rays enter their final seven AL East games with a five-game lead over the Yankees. Our Rays Roundtable discusses the pivotal series in New York, Kevin Cash's postseason rotation, bullpen concerns and what Tampa Bay needs to do before the MLB playoffs.
The Tampa Bay Rays are in a great position with just a few games remaining in the MLB regular season before the playoffs begin.
The team is 99-59 and is preparing to head into the most pivotal series remaining on its schedule. 7 games against their division, ending with four games in three days against the New York Yankees. The team leads the Yankees by 5 games and could finally close the door on the rest of their AL East division rivals and clinch the number one seed in the American League this week.
On this week's Rays Roundtable, the staff discusses the upcoming series, how Kevin Cash should set up the rotation for the playoffs, and any other concerns they have before the Rays fight for their first World Series title.
The Rays have a tough schedule the rest of the way before the postseason. Is that a benefit or a disadvantage to be prepared for the MLB playoffs?
Michael Brauner: It depends on how you look at it. If they can avoid injuries, pick up some wins, and build confidence, it could be a great thing.
Christian Rauh: Overall, I'll say good. I think this is a great way to keep you battle-tested and keep you prepared for the postseason ahead. It's almost like an extended playoffs where you have to make sure that you're not just coasting into October. I think this could definitely benefit Tampa Bay.
How should Kevin Cash set up his starting rotation for the postseason?
Michael Brauner: Rasmussen, Martinez, Peralta, with Griffin Jax as the fourth if needed
Christian Rauh: I completely agree with Michael's rotation above, especially since we're awaiting what Shane McClanahan's status will be for the postseason. He likely won't be 100%, and putting him in the bullpen for some high-leverage situations wouldn't be a bad idea.
What's your biggest concern for the final few series of the regular season?
Michael Brauner: Keeping everyone healthy and keeping the bats somewhat warm. They want to be playing their best baseball at the best time, and that is now.
Christian Rauh: Health is definitely the answer here. There's no doubt about that, but I will say trying to solidify the bullpen is also something I'll be paying attention to. Players like Ty Johnson and Brody Hopkins have got a late-season call-up. Will they make the playoff roster? That's yet to be determined.
Huge series this week against the New York Yankees. How do you predict it will go?
Michael Brauner: A 2-2 split in the Bronx would be nice, it also feels the most likely
Christian Rauh: The Rays have been on a heater lately, winning their last six games and going 8-2 in their last 10. However, it's a different story when they wind up playing the Yankees. If they can keep the momentum at home against Boston before traveling to the Bronx, I like them taking at least three of four and sealing the deal on their division title.
