The Rays will do just fine against southpaws
So far this year the Rays as a team have produced just a 91 wRC+ against left-handed pitching heading into Wednesday’s game – ranking just 22nd in the league. After watching Martin Perez throw seven shutout innings against the Rays last week in Atlanta, I began wondering whether their struggles against left-handed pitching could become […]
Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Yandy Diaz single during a game against Houston Astros on September 13, 2026. The Rays defeated Astros 14-4, sweeping the series. Earlier this year, the Rays had a 91 wRC+ against left-handed pitching, ranking 22nd in the league. Manager's concerns about this struggle in October were addressed as the current roster suggests they should perform better against lefties.
The team's overall wRC+ is skewed among left-handed hitters, but right-handed hitters have a higher wRC+ of 101. Chapman Simpson is in the lineup against lefty starters, showing improvement in his contact rate and overall performance. Jonathan Aranda also has a good approach against lefties and similar contact rates. Victor Mesa Jr. is a potential everyday option with contact and chase rates similar to right-handed batters.
The team's lineup against a left-handed starter prioritizes right-handed bats and defensive range, with Yandy Diaz, Ryan Vilade, Junior Caminero, Jonny DeLuca, Chandler Simpson, Nick Madrigal, Victor Mesa, Nick Fortes, and Jorge Mateo in the lineup. The strategy ensures the team is well-prepared against left-handed pitching.
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