Trades have helped the Rays solidify the bullpen.
Much can be made about the Tampa Bay Rays’ decision to “buy” at the trade deadline. After all, it was the first time in franchise history that they acquired significant major-league talent before the July 31 cutoff.
Before the All-Star break, Tampa Bay was four games over the .500 mark. Their fortunes turned not long after. From July 19 to August 1, the club managed only three wins over a 12-game span. In fact, the club has suffered through three separate four-game losing streaks since the recess.
While the offense has been struggling, several of the acquisitions made before the deadline are providing significant contributions.
Bullpen Buyers
The additions of Sergio Romo and Steve Cishek have paid immediate dividends. And, despite the significant drop in the standings since joining the club, Romo and Cishek have given the Rays consistency out of the bullpen.
Cishek has not allowed a run since he donned a Rays uniform on July 28. He’s thrown 10 innings, allowing only seven base-runners (four hits, three walks) during that span.
In 12 appearances since his departure from the Dodgers, Romo has posted a 2.40 ERA. He’s pitched 15 innings, allowing four runs, striking out 12, and walking only one.
As a whole, the bullpen ERA (2.02) ranks third in the majors since the end of July.
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