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With a doubleheader sweep of the New York Yankees on September 22, the Tampa Bay Rays captured the American League East crown. That division title also secured the No. 1 seed in the AL, rewarding the club with a bye into the ALDS and home-field advantage for every round leading up to the World Series.
That home-field edge could be particularly valuable given how dominant the Rays have been at Tropicana Field this season. Additionally, the team may soon welcome back some injured players, though not everyone will be available.
Starting pitcher Shane McClanahan has already been ruled out for the ALDS due to left forearm tightness. While he hasn't been officially shut down for later rounds, being sidelined a week before the playoffs is far from ideal.
On a brighter note, the bullpen might receive a significant lift. According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times on X, right-hander Tyler Wells and left-hander Garrett Cleavinger both have a chance to return for the ALDS.
Key Analysis
Both Wells and Cleavinger are dealing with forearm tightness in their throwing arms, but their conditions appear less severe than McClanahan's, as they are closer to resuming game action. Getting either pitcher back would be a major boost for Tampa Bay.
Cleavinger has had an inconsistent 2026 season, yet he remains a trusted left-handed option for manager Kevin Cash. Currently, the only southpaws in the bullpen are Steven Matz and Cam Booser. Ian Seymour could transition back to a relief role to add more left-handed depth, especially since the team may need only three starters in the ALDS. In a seven-game series, a fourth starter will be necessary, but Seymour is likely behind Drew Rasmussen, Nick Martinez, Freddy Peralta, and Griffin Jax in the rotation pecking order.
Wells has been a valuable asset out of the bullpen since being acquired from the Baltimore Orioles before the MLB trade deadline. Over 14 appearances and 18 innings, he has posted a 1.50 ERA with 19 strikeouts and a 0.9 bWAR. He quickly became a trusted high-leverage reliever in the bridge to star closer Bryan Baker. Without him, the bullpen's performance has dipped, but the hope is that everything will be back in order when Tampa Bay begins its postseason run.