In 2023, the Rays had a formidable offense. The team was fourth in runs per game, runs scored, RBIs, batting average, OBP, SLG, and OPS. Only the Braves, Dodgers, and World Series Champions Rangers had better numbers.
Upon completion of spring training, the Rays will take home field advantage on Opening Day versus the Toronto Blue Jays at Tropicana Field. A final lineup will be set prior to the game with the results from spring training. Until then, here is the projected lineup.
Catcher
Rene Pinto – As of now, Pinto looks like he is going to get most of the innings behind the plate. He has been working with the same pitching staff for the last two seasons. He should have a solid grasp of their capabilities.
Alex Jackson – This non-roster invitee has questionable abilities. A quality back-up catcher is a hole in the lineup for now.
First base
Yandy Diaz – The league leader in batting average of .330 is returning for his sixth season with the Rays. His stats have been improving each season. As long as he keeps on doing what he did last season, he will be an all-star again.
Second base
Brandon Lowe – The lefty-hitting second baseman managed to hit an impressive 21 home runs in 109 games. Injuries have disrupted his playing time and hopefully he has left that behind. His slash line is unimposing, .328/.443/.771, but to be fair, let us see how he plays without injury and with a full season.
Shortstop
Jose Caballero – With the absence of Wando Franco, speedy Caballero is the team’s shortstop. The slick fielding youngster will most likely bat ninth. His role on the team is a defensive one and any offense produced with be a bonus. Tyler Walls return will make things interesting.
Third base
Isaac Paredes – This super infielder put up all-star like numbers last season. Paredes posted a remarkable slash line of .352/.488/.840 along with 31 home runs. He has a bright future ahead at the age of 25 and is a major part of the team’s offense.
Outfield
Randy Arozarena, Jose Siri, Josh Lowe – Starters. One of the best outfields in the league, at the plate and on the field.
Jonny DeLuca – DeLuca is the back-up outfielder, but he has competition with Richie Palacios.
Infield/utility
Jonathan Aranda – The head office has tremendous confidence Aranda’s minor league numbers will transfer to the major leagues.
Curtis Mead – Another infield prospect. The Australian-born player has only 25 games under his belt in the Bigs.
Designated hitter
Harold Ramirez – DH/OF/1B Ramirez provides consistent offense to the lineup. His .313 batting average and .813 OPS are major selling points as trade rumors surround him.
Injuries (As of February 14)
SS Taylor Wall – Walls return from right hip surgery is uncertain. An optimistic possibility of his return is April. Surgery was conducted in October and Walls spent eight weeks on crutches. The team’s medical staff has cleared Walls to begin doing light workouts and is hitting off a tee.
