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The Tampa Bay Rays are aiming to build on a surprising 2026 campaign and remain contenders in 2027. Most of their roster is set to return, and they have already made a key move by exercising the option on pitcher Drew Rasmussen, despite the hefty price tag. The team has made it clear that Rasmussen will anchor the rotation next season, though trade speculation may still linger. Early signs suggest he will be with the team on Opening Day, which is a positive development for Tampa Bay.
However, the Rays still have work to do in the starting rotation. Star free agent Freddy Peralta is expected to draw significant interest on the open market. Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly recently predicted that Peralta will sign a three-year, $73 million deal with the Chicago Cubs. Peralta's journey to this point has been remarkable. After a strong 2025 season with the Milwaukee Brewers, he was traded to the New York Mets but struggled to find his form. The Mets then dealt him to the Rays at the trade deadline, where he turned his season around and delivered a stellar second half and an even better postseason. That performance has positioned him as arguably the second-best starting pitcher available, behind only Tarik Skubal.
Key Analysis
Peralta's resurgence with the Rays could not have come at a better time, as he is now in line for a lucrative contract. While Tampa Bay would ideally like to retain him, his projected annual salary of over $20 million likely puts him out of the team's financial reach. If the Rays lose both Peralta and Nick Martinez to free agency, they will need to find ways to replace their substantial contributions. The team's offseason strategy will be closely watched as they look to maintain their competitive edge in the American League East.