Rays' Closer Pete Fairbanks Returns from Injury, Aims to Bolster Struggling Bullpen

After a three-week absence due to nerve issues, Fairbanks is back, potentially boosting Tampa Bay’s underperforming relief pitchers.

Pete Fairbanks was reinstated from the 15-day injured list, having missed 19 games with nerve-related hand issues.
Fairbanks’ return follows two successful rehab outings in Triple-A, signaling readiness to rejoin the Rays.
The Rays have faced challenges with the highest bullpen walk rate in the league and poor overall performance metrics this season.
Despite earlier struggles with a 9.00 ERA, Fairbanks’ historical performance includes a solid 2.54 ERA from 2020-2023.
The Rays hope Fairbanks' return will stabilize their bullpen, which has been a weak link this season.