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The Tampa Bay Rays' bid for their first World Series title fell short, as they were defeated by the Milwaukee Brewers in five games. With the offseason beginning immediately, the team wasted no time in making a key roster decision.
Several players hit free agency, including infielder Gavin Lux (who did not play in 2026), starting pitcher Freddy Peralta, and utilityman Jorge Mateo. Additionally, starting pitcher Nick Martinez had his mutual option declined and will pursue a multi-year deal elsewhere. Despite these departures, the Rays ensured their ace will return by exercising the team option on Drew Rasmussen.
For a franchise known for its fiscal prudence, committing $20 million to a single player is unprecedented. Rasmussen is set to become the first Rays player to earn that amount in a season in 2027, should he remain with the team. The move was a logical one, as Rasmussen has developed into a legitimate ace after overcoming early-career elbow issues. He has earned All-Star selections in consecutive years, and his 2026 campaign was his best yet: a 2.67 ERA and 174 strikeouts over 30 starts and 172 innings. He also excelled in the postseason, posting a 2.20 ERA and 31 strikeouts in 28.2 innings across five starts.
However, given the Rays' history of trading high-priced players with limited team control, Rasmussen could become a trade candidate this winter. With just one year remaining before free agency and a substantial salary, he fits the profile of a player Tampa Bay might move. If made available, he would draw significant interest. Regardless of how the situation unfolds, exercising his option was a clear-cut decision for the franchise.
Key Analysis
The Rays' decision to exercise Rasmussen's option was a no-brainer from a baseball standpoint, but it carries financial implications for a team that has never paid a player $20 million in a season. Rasmussen's performance and durability make him a valuable asset, and the team could either retain him as their staff leader or flip him for prospects. Either way, the move ensures they retain flexibility and control over one of the game's top pitchers.