From Jeffrey Springs to Pete Fairbanks, the Tampa Bay Rays have demonstrated a remarkable ability to transform relatively unknown pitchers into notable major league arms. This talent for unlocking hidden potential has earned the Rays widespread recognition across the league. However, while they have previously excelled in taking risks on such players, the Rays took a different approach last year by acquiring an established pitcher in Aaron Civale.
Civale, formerly with the Cleveland Guardians, joined Tampa during last year’s trade deadline at a significant cost, with the Rays sacrificing one of their top prospects, Kyle Manzardo, in the deal. At the time, Manzardo was ranked as the 37th-best prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline. Unlike previous acquisitions, Civale was not a player with potential based on underlying metrics; rather, he was in the midst of a standout season, boasting a 2.34 ERA across 13 starts with Cleveland.
Upon his arrival in Tampa, Civale’s performance took a downturn in the final months of the season. Despite this, there was a notable increase in his strikeout rate, indicating positive signs for the future. Fast forward to 2024, and with Tyler Glasnow departed and several pitchers sidelined due to injuries, Civale has emerged as the most consistent starter for the Rays.
One significant adjustment Civale has made is adding a sweeper to his pitching repertoire, a slower pitch with more break than his previous slider. His approach varies depending on the batter’s handedness, with a focus on curveballs and cutters against lefties and sinkers and sweepers against righties.
While expectations of a sub-1.00 WHIP may be unrealistic, Civale’s changes in approach and increased strikeout rate since joining the Rays, combined with his prior success, make him a formidable opponent for teams like the Yankees in 2024 and beyond. Moreover, the Rays retain control over Civale through the next season, making him a valuable asset for the team’s future endeavors.
