Rays Avoid Arbitration, Sign Shane McClanahan to $3.6 Million Deal as Lefty Targets 2026 Return

Key Points

• Tampa Bay Rays agree to a one-year, $3.6 million contract with pitcher Shane McClanahan.
• The deal avoids arbitration and keeps his salary unchanged during his injury rehab.
• McClanahan has not pitched since August 2023 due to major arm injuries.
• The two-time All-Star remains under team control through 2027.
• Rays view the move as a low‑risk investment with major upside for the 2026 season.

Rays Lock In McClanahan as Rehab Continues

The Tampa Bay Rays have secured left‑hander Shane McClanahan on a one‑year, $3.6 million contract, avoiding arbitration ahead of the league deadline. The agreement, confirmed December 17, 2025, provides financial clarity for both sides as the former All-Star continues his long road back from significant arm injuries.

McClanahan last appeared in a major league game in August 2023, and his absence has been felt across a rotation that once relied heavily on his dominance.

A Key Arm Still Working Toward a Comeback

According to the Tampa Bay Times, the deal mirrors McClanahan’s salary from the previous two seasons—years spent entirely in rehabilitation. The lefty has battled multiple arm issues that derailed his ascent as one of baseball’s premier young starters.

Before injuries halted his momentum, McClanahan was a rising ace. Through his first 74 MLB starts, he posted a 3.02 ERA with 456 strikeouts across 404.2 innings, earning two All-Star selections and cementing himself as a foundational piece of Tampa Bay’s pitching staff.

His extended absence has left a noticeable gap in the Rays’ rotation depth, making his eventual return one of the franchise’s most anticipated storylines.

A Strategic, Low‑Risk Move for Tampa Bay

For the budget‑minded Rays, the contract represents a calculated gamble with significant upside. McClanahan remains under team control through 2027, giving Tampa Bay multiple seasons to benefit from a potential resurgence.

If he returns even in a limited capacity, the impact on the pitching staff could be transformative. A healthy McClanahan would instantly elevate the rotation and reshape the Rays’ competitive outlook heading into 2026.

The agreement also helps streamline the Rays’ offseason workload. With several arbitration‑eligible players on the roster, resolving McClanahan’s contract early allows the front office to shift focus to other needs, including outfield depth and catching support.

What Happens Next?

McClanahan’s recovery will continue to be closely monitored throughout 2026 spring training. The Rays remain optimistic, signaling confidence in his long‑term health and value. Should he return to form, his comeback could dramatically influence the American League playoff race.

For now, Tampa Bay has secured cost certainty—and kept the door open for one of baseball’s most intriguing comeback stories.