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sports1d ago
Rays Share Official Season-Opening Starting Pitching Rotation
- Rays announce a five-man Opening Day rotation for 2026, led by Rasmussen and including Martinez, Matz, Pepiot, and McClanahan.
- Drew Rasmussen starts Opening Day in St. Louis, setting the tone for the Rays' early schedule.
- Nick Martinez and Steven Matz are slotted behind Rasmussen in the early rotation order.
- Ryan Pepiot will carry the ball for a road test in Milwaukee after the St. Louis opener.
- Shane McClanahan, return from injury, could start the home opener if health permits.
- The rotation arrangement aims to minimize bullpen strain by separating potential innings-limited starters.
- Karp Bass reported the rotation plan, highlighting the strategic sequencing.
- The Rays previously faced home stadium disruptions in 2025 due to Hurricane Milton, moving games to Steinbrenner Field.
- The Rays expect McClanahan to be the first Rays pitcher to toe the rubber at The Trop in 2026 home games.
- The team’s top-hitting beat writer Adam Berry conveyed the rotation details and strategic intent.
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