The Tampa Bay Rays have decided to place struggling closer Pete Fairbanks on the 15-day injured list due to nerve-related issues before their game against the Detroit Tigers. Fairbanks has been dealing with numbness in his fingers on and off for the past few years, and the problem resurfaced over the weekend.
Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash explained that Fairbanks experienced discomfort while playing catch on Saturday, receiving treatment throughout the day. Despite hoping he would be ready to play on Sunday, the issue persisted before the game. Fairbanks has undergone some tests on his shoulder and arm, with more testing scheduled to help identify the root of the problem.
Cash mentioned that the team will continue to investigate the issue by running imaging tests from Fairbanks’ neck down to his fingers. With Fairbanks out, the Rays called up reliever Kevin Kelly from Triple-A Durham to fill his roster spot. In the meantime, the Rays plan to rotate different pitchers like Colin Poche, Jason Adam, Shawn Armstrong, and Garrett Cleavinger in the closer role based on matchups. Fairbanks has struggled this season, posting a 9.00 ERA in eight games, allowing eight runs in seven innings.
Despite this setback, Cash remains optimistic about Fairbanks’ chances of returning soon. “We hope that Pete is able to get through these tests and find a solution,” said Cash. “He’s an important part of our bullpen and we want him back as soon as possible.”
The Rays will face a tough challenge against Detroit without their top closer in their lineup. However, they are determined to win despite this obstacle.
In conclusion, it’s disappointing for both Tampa Bay Rays fans and management that they have had to make this move with Pete Fairbanks being placed on injured list due to nerve-related issues