The Tampa Bay Rays successfully navigated salary arbitration for all seven of their eligible players, including pitcher Zack Littell, ahead of the deadline. Littell is set to earn $5.72 million in 2025, a significant increase from his $1.85 million salary in 2024, surpassing the initial projections of $4.8 million.

Since joining the team off waivers in 2023, Littell has transitioned from a career reliever to a reliable starter, achieving impressive statistics. In 2023, he recorded a 3.93 ERA and 7.4 strikeouts per nine innings over 14 starts. He improved in 2024, finishing with an 8-10 record and a 3.63 ERA in 29 starts, leading all Rays players with a 2.8 WAR.

Drew Rasmussen has finalized a two-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays worth $8.5 million, successfully avoiding salary arbitration. The contract includes an option that could increase the total value to $28 million across three years. The agreement was announced by Rasmussen’s agency, Beverly Hills Sports Council, just days ahead of the scheduled arbitration discussions.

The 29-year-old right-hander underwent a third elbow surgery in July 2023 but made a swift return to the mound on August 7. During his brief stint following recovery, he recorded a 2.82 ERA with a 0-2 record in four starts and 12 relief appearances, showcasing his ability with a 97.4 mph four-seam fastball.

Throughout his five-year career, Rasmussen boasts a 20-12 record with a 2.95 ERA over 50 starts and 44 relief appearances, primarily with the Milwaukee Brewers and the Rays. He will remain under contract with the Rays until at least the end of the 2026 season, provided the option is not exercised. Meanwhile, several other Rays players are still in arbitration, including Shane Baz and Zack Littell.

Drew Rasmussen has secured his future with the Tampa Bay Rays, reaching a two-year, $8.5 million deal that could escalate to $28 million over three seasons. The contract features a $500,000 signing bonus and salaries set at $2 million for the first year and $5.5 million in 2026.

The deal includes an $8 million option for 2027, which comes with a $500,000 buyout. This option carries potential escalators based on Rasmussen's health and performance, adding a layer of incentive for both the player and the team.

The Tampa Bay Rays are close to finalizing a trade that will send left-handed pitcher Jeffrey Springs to the Oakland Athletics. In return, the Rays will receive right-handed pitchers Joe Boyle and Jacob Watters, along with first baseman Will Simpson, plus a compensation A round draft pick.

Springs, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, had a solid four-year tenure with the Rays, posting an impressive 2.63 ERA. This trade marks a significant move for both teams as the Athletics look to bolster their rotation while the Rays continue to manage their pitching depth.

Ben Rortvedt, a catcher, reflects on the challenges of playing in Florida's humid conditions, recalling his experiences in the Florida State League. He emphasizes the importance of nutrition and hydration while adjusting to the weather.

The Tampa Bay Rays are exploring temporary venues for the 2025 season due to damage from Hurricane Milton. Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred advocates for keeping the team close to home, with potential stadiums like Clearwater's BayCare Ballpark and Tampa's Steinbrenner Field under consideration.

Players like Josh Lowe and Zack Littell discuss the impact of heat and rain delays, stressing the need for proper preparation and hydration. They express confidence that the team can adapt to the new environment, despite potential challenges.