Rays Designate Six Players for Assignment in Major Roster Overhaul

The Tampa Bay Rays have initiated a significant roster overhaul in the 2025 offseason, designating six players for assignment, including notable names like right-handed pitcher Alex Faedo and outfielder Stuart Fairchild. Faedo, plagued by shoulder inflammation and thoracic outlet syndrome surgery, did not pitch for the Rays this season and was designated for assignment after being activated from the 60-day injured list. Fairchild, who moved among several teams in 2025, also did not play for the Rays due to an oblique strain. Other pitchers designated for assignment include Cole Wilcox, Caleb Boushley, Joey Gerber, and Garrett Acton, with the moves clearing space for newly acquired outfielder Ryan Vilade and the activation of injured players Shane McClanahan, Hunter Bigge, Manuel Rodriguez, and Jonny DeLuca from the 60-day IL. These roster adjustments come as the Rays prepare for the offseason following their failure to qualify for the playoffs, with important contract decisions pending for players like Brandon Lowe and Pete Fairbanks. The team's 40-man roster stands at full capacity, reflecting a strategic restructuring aimed at building depth and flexibility for the upcoming season.