- Wed Dec 11, 2024 3:17 pm
#3015
The recent Rule 5 draft has stirred up quite the conversation in the baseball community, especially with the Tampa Bay Rays making some intriguing moves. They’ve added LHP Nate Lavender, a promising lefty from the Mets, while losing RHP Evan Reifert to the Nationals. This raises some interesting questions about the future of both players and the strategies of the Rays.
Nate Lavender comes with a bit of a health cloud hanging over him after undergoing an internal brace procedure on his elbow. However, his ability to generate strikeouts with a low-90s fastball and impressive extension could make him a valuable asset if he can stay healthy. Do you think the Rays made the right call in selecting him? What are your expectations for Lavender in the upcoming season?
On the flip side, Evan Reifert’s journey has been a rollercoaster, marked by injury setbacks but also flashes of brilliance. His command issues have been a concern, but he’s shown he can dominate when on his game. How do you see his transition to the Nationals playing out? Will he finally find his footing in the big leagues, or is he destined to remain a tantalizing prospect?
Additionally, the Rays' decision not to pursue Canadian catching prospect Liam Hicks raises eyebrows. With Danny Jensen and Ben Rortvedt already in the mix, was this a missed opportunity for the Rays? Or do you think they’re making the right call by focusing on their current roster?
Let’s dive into these moves and their implications. What are your bold predictions for Lavender and Reifert in 2025? How do you feel about the Rays' overall strategy in the Rule 5 draft? Share your thoughts and let’s get the conversation rolling!
Nate Lavender comes with a bit of a health cloud hanging over him after undergoing an internal brace procedure on his elbow. However, his ability to generate strikeouts with a low-90s fastball and impressive extension could make him a valuable asset if he can stay healthy. Do you think the Rays made the right call in selecting him? What are your expectations for Lavender in the upcoming season?
On the flip side, Evan Reifert’s journey has been a rollercoaster, marked by injury setbacks but also flashes of brilliance. His command issues have been a concern, but he’s shown he can dominate when on his game. How do you see his transition to the Nationals playing out? Will he finally find his footing in the big leagues, or is he destined to remain a tantalizing prospect?
Additionally, the Rays' decision not to pursue Canadian catching prospect Liam Hicks raises eyebrows. With Danny Jensen and Ben Rortvedt already in the mix, was this a missed opportunity for the Rays? Or do you think they’re making the right call by focusing on their current roster?
Let’s dive into these moves and their implications. What are your bold predictions for Lavender and Reifert in 2025? How do you feel about the Rays' overall strategy in the Rule 5 draft? Share your thoughts and let’s get the conversation rolling!