The Tampa Bay Rays have been flat-out disrespected all season, despite rolling into late September with the best record in the American League. For most of the year, people have slept on this squad, even though they’ve had nearly a 100% chance of making the playoffs since way back in July. They’ve spent an insane 131 days holding down the top spot in the American League East. Now, with the ALDS right around the corner, it’s time everyone finally recognized just how legit these guys are.
Old School Bats With Modern Power
When the Rays are cooking, their on-field action is unmatched. They’re a nightmare for opposing pitchers, constantly putting the ball in play, hitting for power, and always a threat to swipe a base. It’s that old school contact hitting, moving runners, that makes them so tough. They’re on pace to lead the entire league in both batting average and stolen bases. Plus, their 18.6 K% is the lowest in the game, meaning these dudes just don’t strike out. Yandy Diaz, the veteran stalwart, is still an elite hitter, just turning 35 in August and crushing over .300 with 20-plus homers for the third time in his career. And Jonathan Aranda, who proved his minor league hitting tools would translate, boasts the 11th best wRC+ since August 31, 2024, thanks to a sweet combo of contact, power, and getting on base.
Unsung Heroics From The Mound And The Plate
But it’s not just the bats doing the talking. The Rays’ pitching staff has been quietly dominant with the 8th lowest ERA, the 4th lowest opponent average, and they lead baseball with the lowest BB% and lowest WHIP. This is an elite squad all around, period. And then there’s Junior Caminero. Listen, we knew this kid was gonna launch dingers, but what he’s done with his plate discipline and defense? That’s what makes him a true MVP candidate. He just turned 23 in July, and after two full big league seasons, he’s got 9.8 fWAR and 86 home runs. This season, he nearly doubled his walk rate while lowering his K% and still replicated his slugging and homer totals from last year. We’ve never seen a player like him in this team’s history.
The ALDS is almost here, and it’s time for every baseball fan to get to know “who these guys are.” This team has been proving doubters wrong all season, and now they’re ready to show the world what they’re truly made of when it matters most.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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