Rays Sign Veteran Pitcher Kyle Gibson to Minor League Contract

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays announced they have signed pitcher Kyle Gibson to a minor league contract on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Gibson, a right-hander, joins the team after being released by the Baltimore Orioles earlier this month.

Gibson, 37, has struggled this season, posting a 16.78 ERA over four starts with the Orioles. In total, he allowed 23 earned runs in just 12 1/3 innings before being designated for assignment on May 20. He initially signed a one-year, $5.25 million deal with Baltimore less than a week before Opening Day but missed spring training and was optioned to the minors to build up his stamina.

Despite his rocky start, the Rays seem willing to take a chance on Gibson’s experience. Over his career, he has thrown 1,878 innings with a lifetime ERA of 4.60. Notably, he was a reliable innings eater for the St. Louis Cardinals last year, making 30 starts with a 4.24 ERA.

The Rays currently have an open spot on their 40-man roster after designating catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment. As a result, if the team opts to promote Gibson to the majors, they will only need to make a corresponding move on the active roster.

While the Rays’ rotation has remained healthy with effective performances from their starters, including a 3.65 ERA as a staff, adding Gibson could provide additional depth. Tampa Bay could be looking for a long reliever or a viable option for spot starts amid a busy schedule.

“We are hoping to revive his career. If there’s any team that can do it, it’s probably the Rays,” said a representative from the Rays organization.

This acquisition continues a trend for the Rays of seeking out players who have faced challenges in their careers, potentially allowing them to thrive in a supportive environment.