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Shane Baz could be boost Tampa Bay Rays need

By David Hill

Oct 8, 2021; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Shane Baz (11) walks on to the field before the first inning against the Boston Red Sox in game two of the 2021 ALDS at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2021; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Shane Baz (11) walks on to the field before the first inning against the Boston Red Sox in game two of the 2021 ALDS at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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On one hand, the Tampa Bay Rays are in decent shape as they were one of six teams in the American League with a winning record heading into Wednesday. On the other hand, they were already eight games out of first in the AL East. Despite being in a playoff spot if the season was to end now, the Rays could certainly use a boost.

That boost is coming. Shane Baz has completed his rehab assignment and will be joining the Rays for their series against the Twins this weekend.

Shane Baz can solidify Tampa Bay Rays rotation

The Rays could certainly use Baz at this point. While the top three in their rotation have been solid, the back of the Rays rotation has been questionable at best. With Ryan Yarbrough having been sent back to Triple-A, there is a clear opening for Baz to step in.

Baz showed his promise in his brief major league stint last season. He allowed three runs on six hits and three walks in his 13 innings of work last year, striking out 18 batters. However, there was some reason for concern with that performance as all three runs came via the home run.

However, it is easy to dream of what could be based on his performance during his rehab stint in Durham. Baz allowed two runs on eight hits and four walks in his 13 innings, striking out 20 batters. That performance would certainly fit well with the Rays rotation.

Maybe Baz can be that same caliber of pitcher in the majors. The Rays do have an amazing track record of being able to generate young arms, and having a top pitching prospect such as Baz only helps. He could very easily be the next in line.

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Shane Baz is on the cusp of returning to the Tampa Bay Rays. They could certainly use him to shore up a troublesome back of the rotation.

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