Rays’ Star Pitcher McClanahan Exits Game with Possible Injury

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane McClanahan exited Saturday’s game against the Boston Red Sox in the third inning due to a potential arm injury, raising concerns for the team’s ace.

The incident occurred while McClanahan was leading the game 5-0, just after delivering a pitch to Red Sox lead-off hitter Kristian Campbell. The 27-year-old immediately signaled towards the dugout, indicating discomfort, and left the field accompanied by head trainer Joe Benge. Up to that point, McClanahan had thrown 41 pitches, yielding only one hit while striking out three batters.

McClanahan’s health is particularly sensitive as he missed the entire 2024 season recovering from Tommy John surgery. Prior to this injury, he showcased an impressive 2023 season with a 3.29 ERA and 121 strikeouts over 115.0 innings. The surgery he underwent in August 2023 marked a significant setback in his career.

As the spring training progressed, McClanahan seemed to be regaining his form, pitching 4.2 scoreless innings without allowing a run and collecting five strikeouts this month. His performance had generated optimism for a robust return to full-time pitching this season.

A two-time All-Star, McClanahan has a career 3.02 ERA, a record of 33-16, and a WHIP of 1.105 over his first three seasons with the Rays. The team has not yet updated the media on the status of his injury, leaving fans and teammates anxiously awaiting news.

As the situation unfolds, team officials are likely to provide further updates regarding McClanahan’s health in the coming days. The Rays are hoping this latest circumstance does not lead to another prolonged absence for their star pitcher.