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The Tampa Bay Rays have the best record in MLB. They are currently 39-17 and have surprised everyone with how they have played this season. Despite their promising start, they are suddenly confronted with a huge problem.
Pete Fairbanks, their closer, was placed on the injured list with left hip inflammation. He suffered the injury during warmups on May 28th and is currently placed on the 15-day injured list.
Fairbanks' absence may require fantasy managers to make changes to their lineup and this piece will discuss the new closer for the American League leaders.
Tampa Bay Rays Closing Pitcher
Since Pete Fairbanks has been placed on the injured list, Jason Adam has taken his place as the Tampa Bay Rays' new closer. Behind Adam are Colin Poche and Kevin Kelly for the closer role respectively, and they will hope to contribute to the franchise's success.
Fairbanks had a 0-1 record with a 1.54 ERA, 10 strikeouts, and five saves in 13 outings this season before getting hurt. He will be difficult to replace until he is back healthy, but Adam did an excellent job in sealing the 11-10 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The new Rays closer pitched two innings in the game against Dodgers on May 28th, in which he recorded no hits and had four Ks to finish the job against a great team.
Rays Closing Pitcher Fantasy Outlook
Fantasy managers should consider adding Jason Adam to their lineups because he could be useful in the games until Fairbanks returns. In 24 appearances this season, the 31-year-old closer has a 3.22 ERA, 30 strikeouts, and seven saves.
The Rays' primary closer is expected to return around June 12th. In the meantime, the team will face the Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, Minnesota Twins, and Texas Rangers. The games aren't easy, but based on what we've seen so far, Adam may rack up points for fantasy managers.
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