Attention baseball fans! The Rays' Garrett Cleavinger is creating quite a buzz, with teams seeking left-handed bullpen reinforcements showing interest in his services. But here's the intriguing part: there's no clear indication that a trade is imminent, leaving us with a tantalizing mystery.
Cleavinger, who's about to turn 32, is a seasoned veteran, entering his seventh MLB season and fourth with the Rays. His journey with the team began at the 2022 trade deadline when he was acquired from the Dodgers, and since then, he's been a key part of the Rays' success.
His performance in 2025 was exceptional, posting a 2.35 ERA and an impressive 33.7% strikeout rate. He dominated both left-handed and right-handed batters, with an OPS of .602 and .620 respectively. His Statcast metrics were off the charts, and he even enjoyed some good fortune with a low BABIP and an incredible strand rate.
So, why would the Rays consider trading him? Well, it's a delicate balance. While his 2025 performance was solid, the Rays might feel they can get a good return for a player they acquired relatively recently. However, with his importance to the bullpen and a modest salary, it's a decision that requires careful consideration.
And this is where it gets interesting: Cleavinger is earning a bargain $2.4MM in 2026, and with one more year of arbitration eligibility, he's a cost-effective asset. The Rays, known for their budget constraints, could benefit from his consistent performance, especially if he continues to deliver similar numbers.
The closer role for the 2026 season is up for grabs, with Cleavinger, Edwin Uceta, Griffin Jax, and Bryan Baker all in the mix. While Cleavinger's left-handedness gives him an edge in certain situations, his role could be more defined as a situational reliever rather than a full-time closer.
Furthermore, the Rays' bullpen depth, especially in left-handed relief, is a factor. With Uceta dealing with shoulder soreness, the team might be hesitant to part ways with Cleavinger unless they receive an exceptional offer.
In the meantime, Cleavinger and Jax are gearing up for their WBC duties, representing the United States.
So, what do you think, baseball enthusiasts? Should the Rays hold on to Cleavinger or explore trade options? The decision could shape their bullpen strategy for the upcoming season. Let's discuss in the comments!
