Overview
- The Rays signed right-hander Craig Kimbrel to a major-league contract and added him to the 26-man roster, then placed Jesse Scholtens on the 15-day injured list to open a spot.
- Kimbrel became a free agent after the New York Mets designated him for assignment and he refused a minor-league assignment, and Tampa Bay signed him and used him the same day on May 26.
- He made an immediate Rays debut, throwing a scoreless inning in relief while striking out two batters and inducing a groundout to end the frame.
- Kimbrel’s recent numbers show a clear decline, with a 6.00 ERA in 14 outings for the Mets this season, 15 strikeouts in 15 innings, and a Statcast-measured fastball down to about 93.6 mph.
- A nine-time All-Star with 440 career saves, Kimbrel brings Hall of Fame-level résumé and playoff experience to the Rays even as he moves into his 11th major-league team and a reduced, veteran relief role.