Although the Rays have enjoyed recent success, they consistently aim to reduce payroll by acquiring prospects, leveraging their exceptional scouting and talent development skills, especially with pitchers. This approach can make trading with them challenging, but there’s a reliever on their roster who might catch the Braves’ attention.
MLB insider Jon Morosi recently reported growing interest from teams in Rays pitchers Jeffrey Springs (LHP) and Pete Fairbanks (RHP). While both could be intriguing options for the Braves, this analysis centers on Fairbanks and why he might be a perfect fit for Atlanta’s bullpen.
The hard-throwing right-hander comes with two years of team control remaining. He is set to earn $3.667 million this season, with a $7 million club option for 2026—a reasonable price, even by the Rays’ standards. Over the past two seasons, Fairbanks has established himself as the team’s closer, but Tampa Bay might see this as an opportunity to capitalize on his value and continue building for the future.
The AL East remains one of the most competitive divisions in baseball. The Yankees, fresh off a World Series appearance, are poised to spend big, while the Orioles are emerging as a powerhouse with room for significant upgrades. Meanwhile, the Red Sox and Blue Jays are well-resourced and actively preparing for contention.
Given this competitive environment, the Rays could face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot by 2025. This diminishes their immediate need for an elite closer and could prompt them to trade Fairbanks for assets that align better with their long-term outlook.
Pete Fairbanks has faced his share of injury issues, which have affected both his consistency and availability. Last season, he recorded a 3.57 ERA with an 8.7 K/9 over 46 appearances. The strikeout rate marked the lowest of his career, partly due to a dip in velocity—his fastball averaged 97.4 mph in 2024, nearly two mph below his peak.
Despite these concerns, Fairbanks’ potential and team-friendly contract make him an attractive option for many teams. Since 2020, he has posted a 2.79 ERA, 2.70 FIP, and an impressive 141 ERA+, underscoring his value when healthy. For the Braves, he could be an ideal addition to the bullpen, particularly with Joe Jiménez sidelined—provided the cost aligns with their plans.
