Skip to content

Rays' Xavier Cedeno: Near certainty to return to Rays in 2017

Cedeno (neck), along with closer Alex Colome and Brad Boxberger, is one of three relievers virtually assured of a return to the Rays in 2017, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.

Analysis:

The southpaw holds the distinction of being the top lefty arm out of the bullpen for the Rays, affording him some extra value. Cedeno closed out the season on a strong note, rattling off eight consecutive scoreless appearances that encompassed six innings overall. He definitely had his up-and-down moments in 2016, however, as he blew all five save opportunities he saw and finished the season with a 3.70 ERA that was his highest of the three campaigns in which he's fired at least 40 innings. On the plus side, Cedeno was credited with 19 holds and recorded 43 whiffs over 41.1 innings. As a strong strikeout pitcher who's displayed serviceable control over his two Rays seasons, he remains a valued left-handed option heading into next spring.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox