With the Return of Alex Cobb Looming, Who Gets Cut to Make Room? (Updated)

The Rays could send Gomes back to Triple-A Durham in hopes he’d work through his recent found pitching woes. I’d imagine a move like this could be construed as a last ditch opportunity for Lueke to prove his worth. However, I’d also argue the release of Bell should have sent Lueke a clear message — his spot in the ‘pen isn’t a certainty, nor is it safe. After all, if Friedman and company were willing to eat $5.5MM on an underperforming Bell, there is a very realistic possibility that Lueke could be the next to befall the axe.

Looking Backward While Moving Forward: Ramos, Rays Beaten Up By Mariners, 12-5

There isn’t much I can say on the subject of Monday night’s loss. To his credit, Cesar Ramos saved the pen by eating 6-2/3 innings — but that’s the only positive I can cull up.

Looking Backward While Moving Forward: Ramos, Rays Blank ChiSox, 4-0

Many have suggested that Cesar Ramos is not fit for the starting rotation. I’d imagine some of you reading this might be one of those who may feel this way. I, on the other hand, feel as though he got the short end of the stick coming out of Spring Training — a feeling that’s bolstered every time he’s taken the mound since. Sure… He flubbed his first start of the season against the Reds. Since however, he’s tossed 10 innings of one run ball, including his impressive start Saturday night against the White Sox. Ramos put together an efficient 5 IP/4 H/0 R/2 BB/0 K/65 pitches (39 strikes, 60% K/BB)/9 GO/6 FO outing, in the Rays three-game, skid-ending, 4-0 win against the White Sox.

Looking Backward While Moving Forward: Cobb, Rays Blank Reds, 1-0, Cobb Placed on the 15-day DL

The skinny: Alex Cobb came out victorious in Saturday’s pitching duel against Alfredo Simon, while James Loney provided all the offense the Rays would need. The Rays walked away from the Reds’ home Saturday afternoon with their second series win of the season.

Rays Come From Behind to Beat the Yanks, 5-4 (Updated)

A day after Joe Maddon announced Cesar Ramos is a candidate for the number five spot in the starting rotation, the Rays southpaw got the start against the Yankees at Charlotte Sports Park. Tampa Bay eked out a come-from-behind victory, thanks to a trifecta of home runs by Ben Zobrist, Desmond Jennings, and Matt Joyce.