Rays place struggling closer Pete Fairbanks on injured list with nerve-related issues

Rays' struggling closer Pete Fairbanks placed on injured list due to nerve-related issues. Get updates on his condition and its impact on the team

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.  — Prior to Monday night's matchup against the Detroit Tigers, the Tampa Bay Rays made a roster move by placing struggling closer Pete Fairbanks on the 15-day injured list due to nerve-related issues.

 

Fairbanks has been grappling with numbness in his fingers intermittently over the past few years, and the problem resurfaced over the weekend.

 

"During catch, he felt a sensation in his hand," explained Tampa Bay manager Kevin Cash. "He received treatment all day Saturday, and we were hopeful he'd be ready for Sunday's game. Unfortunately, the issue persisted."

 

Fairbanks has undergone tests on his shoulder and arm, with further examinations scheduled.

 

"We're taking a methodical approach, conducting imaging from his neck down to his fingers to identify any underlying issues," Cash elaborated. "While we're uncertain about the exact cause, it's important to address it promptly."

 

This season has been challenging for Fairbanks, who has struggled with a 9.00 ERA in eight appearances, tallying two losses. The right-hander has conceded seven earned runs in seven innings pitched.

 

To fill Fairbanks' spot on the roster, the Rays have recalled reliever Kevin Kelly from Triple-A Durham.

 

In Fairbanks' absence, Cash plans to utilize a closer-by-committee approach, considering matchups and leveraging the talents of Colin Poche, Jason Adam, Shawn Armstrong, and Garrett Cleavinger in pivotal late-game situations.