Two Candidates To Replace Injured Tyler Glasnow In Rays Rotation

The Tampa Bay Rays are facing a tough decision regarding who will replace the injured Tyler Glasnow in the team's rotation. While several pitchers are in the running, two appear to have the most realistic shot at securing the role: Yonny Chirinos and Luis Patino.

Chirinos, who underwent Tommy John surgery and has thrown only 18.1 innings since the 2020 season, signed a one-year deal with the Rays this offseason and looked like he would be on the outside looking in to make the roster out of spring training.

However, with Glasnow sidelined due to an oblique injury, Chirinos has emerged as a leading candidate to step into a huge role in the rotation. He made a spot start towards the end of the 2022 season, delivering four scoreless innings against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Over his four-year career, he holds a decent 3.54 ERA across 49 appearances (29 starts).

Yonny Chirinos, who may be the leading candidate to replace Glasnow in #Rays rotation, on mound for 3rd
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) February 28, 2023

Meanwhile, Patino was being built up as a starter during spring training, but his role in the pitching staff was unclear as long as everyone remained healthy.

Now, with Glasnow's injury, Patino is now in the conversation to secure a significant starting role and will be competing with Chirinos and Josh Fleming.

Patino showed flashes of what made him a top prospect a few years back during the 2021 season, but his 2022 campaign was ruined by oblique and shoulder injuries, making it uncertain how much he will be able to contribute.

Strong inning by #Rays Patino, who will be among leading candidates (with Chirinos, Fleming, maybe Bradley) to replace Glasnow in rotation during April.
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) March 1, 2023

Over his three-year career, the still just twenty-three year old pitcher holds a 5.10 ERA across 36 appearances and 22 starts.

Ultimately, the Rays will have to weigh their options carefully and decide which pitcher will best fill the void left by Glasnow's absence in the rotation. Photo Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports