The hope had been that Shane Baz would return to the Tampa Bay Rays before a possible run in the postseason. Although he was transferred to the 60 day Injured List shortly after being sidelined, the target had always been for him to return sometime in the middle of September. Such a plan would allow Baz to have a couple of starts before the playoffs, letting him build back up and return to form.
Those hopes have been dashed. As Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times noted, it is unlikely that he returns this season although scans of his elbow went well.
Shane Baz a big blow to Tampa Bay Rays hopes
The current timeline makes it possible that he could return for the postseason, although such a role would need to be determined. He is reportedly at least two weeks from even light throwing, let alone any other activities. If the two weeks holds up, Baz would then has approximately six weeks to go from playing catch and bullpen sessions to a rehab assignment and getting stretched back out. And that is only if everything goes perfectly.
It is still worth the effort to see if they can get Baz to return in time for the playoffs. While his 5.00 ERA and 1.333 WHiP over his 27 innings, but he also struck out 30 batters with just nine walks. If Baz is healthy, he could be a weapon should the Rays reach the postseason.
At the same time, the Rays need to balance their future against this season. Baz is likely to be the Rays presumptive ace in 2023, one of the arms that they look to build around going forward. His health, and ability to return to the form from 2021 that made him so intriguing this year, are keys for the Rays going forward.
That should be the focus. The Rays are going to be looking to find a way to remain competitive in the future. Having Baz healthy going forward is going to be a major part of that effort. Trying to rush him back for a postseason run that may not even happen could ruin their hopes for 2023 and beyond, especially in a competitive and rapidly improving division.
The Tampa Bay Rays are hoping that Shane Baz can return in time for the postseason. In reality, they should make sure he is healthy for 2023.