CLEARWATER, FLORIDA - MARCH 06: Shane McClanahan #18 of the Tampa Bay Rays delivers a pitch in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies during a Grapefruit League spring training game at BayCare Ballpark on March 06, 2025 in Clearwater, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a major setback right before the season starts. Shane McClanahan, who was expected to lead the rotation, left his final spring training start today against the Red Sox with left triceps tightness. The injury happened in the third inning when McClanahan showed extreme discomfort after throwing a pitch.
This is a tough break for McClanahan, who has been working his way back from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2024 season.
The 27-year-old ace looked sharp in spring training, throwing seven shutout innings and showing signs of regaining his dominant form. The Rays were counting on him to anchor their rotation and start on Opening Day.
After the game, manager Kevin Cash acknowledged the concern and confirmed that McClanahan will undergo further testing on Sunday to determine the severity of the injury. “Very unfortunate,” Cash said. Given his history, the Rays will likely be cautious with his recovery.
For now, Tampa Bay is holding its breath, hoping this isn’t another long-term setback.
