Three Rays Players on Thin Ice as Spring Training Approaches
Spring training is a crucial time for baseball players, a season of proving themselves to secure a spot on the roster or cement their role within the team. For some players, this means fighting to hold on to their position, especially when rosters are shuffled during the off-season. Let's take a closer look at three Rays players who will be under intense scrutiny as they step onto the field for spring training.
1. Hunter Feduccia: A Young Catcher's Challenge
The Rays made a significant move at the trade deadline, swapping away Danny Jansen and Ben Rortvedt, and bringing in Nick Fortes and Hunter Feduccia. Feduccia, a 28-year-old former Dodgers prospect, was expected to be the team's starting catcher for the remainder of the 2025 season. However, the Rays currently lack a strong catcher to compete with these new additions. The only contender is Dominic Keegan, a Triple-A prospect who has been inconsistent in his career. While Keegan may not push the established players out of their roles, Feduccia is still on the hot seat. The Rays are closely monitoring his performance and whether he can become a reliable starting catcher at the highest level.
2. Jonny DeLuca: A Center Fielder's Dilemma
Jonny DeLuca, another former Dodgers prospect, has been given every opportunity to succeed with the Rays. However, after two seasons in center field, the team's direction seems to be shifting. This doesn't necessarily mean DeLuca is in danger of losing his spot, but his role may change. The Rays signed Cedric Mullins, a defensive stalwart, to a one-year deal in December. Mullins, a 31-year-old outfielder, is known for his exceptional defensive skills in center field. With the team's high regard for defensive production and DeLuca's lack of consistency, Mullins is likely to become the everyday center fielder, pushing DeLuca to the corners.
3. Cole Sulser: A Reliever's Uncertain Future
Cole Sulser, a 35-year-old right-handed reliever, had a successful season with a 1.99 ERA. However, it's challenging to believe that these stats will be maintained in 2026. Sulser's age, especially for a pitcher, is a concern. Additionally, his career has been up and down, leading to speculation that last season's numbers may have been a fluke. While his hard work cannot be disregarded, it's possible that the competition is intensifying. A strong spring training performance will be crucial for Sulser to secure his position and avoid being on thin ice.
