Tampa Bay Rays go too far with the bullpen strategy

Tampa Bay Rays go too far with the bullpen strategy

March 21, 2018; Port Charlotte, FL, USA; A look at the Rays logo on a member of the Tampa Bay Rays versus the Boston Red Sox at Charlotte Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Cincinnati Reds contender Brian Rey caught the eye during the Winter League game by David Hill

The Tampa Bay Rays could find helpers just about anywhere. Veteran weapons are plucked from the junk and suddenly stand up again. Inconspicuous minor leaguers are turned into weapons. It’s almost like they can sign someone off a Wal-Mart parking lot and find a productive helper.

It seems like they are putting that theory to the test. According to their latest depth chart on ESPN.com, the Rays’ main aide is Brandon Berger, a 46-year-old former outfielder who last appeared with the Royals in the majors in 2004.

Tampa Bay Rays really go for bullpen help

Berger has some pitching experience back in 1998. That season he made two appearances for the High-A Wilmington Blue Rocks on the hill. He allowed three runs on three hits and four walks in his two innings without a strikeout.

It would be positive for the rays that his arm would be well rested. It’s been 23 years since he was on the hill and 16 years since he was last on the diamond when he retired after spending 2005 in Triple-A with the Cardinals. Perhaps the Rays are also hoping that there’s something left in the racket and that Berger can be an unexpected two-way threat.

It’s hard to imagine who ESPN wanted to put in place at this point. Brooks Raley has at least one first name that starts with ‘B’. The same goes for Jalen Beeks’ last name. The only thing that is really clear is that former Royals outfielder Brandon Berger is not part of the Rays’ bullpen plans. Or is he?

According to ESPN.com, the Tampa Bay Rays are using former royals outfielder Brandon Berger as their main savior. You can find guns everywhere.

The post Tampa Bay Rays go too far with the bullpen strategy first appeared on Daily Florida Press.

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