St. Petersburg, Fla. – Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash announced Sunday that left‑handed starter Shane McClanahan will not be on the roster for the remainder of the postseason. The decision follows McClanahan’s placement on the 15‑day injured list due to left forearm tightness, an issue that forced him out of his September 3 start in Texas, his 24th and final appearance of the regular season.
Injury details and recent health history
Cash said, “Shane is done for the season. He’s a healthy pitcher. We are incredibly appreciative and grateful for the contributions that he gave us to get us to this point.” He added that McClanahan’s perseverance could merit consideration for Comeback Player of the Year, noting the extensive time he missed due to injuries.
McClanahan’s recent health challenges include a stint on the injured list from July 31 to August 16 for mid‑back tightness. Earlier in his career, the 29‑year‑old endured a 578‑day layoff after undergoing a second Tommy John surgery in August 2023. He attempted a comeback in 2025, enjoying a healthy spring training before a nerve injury in his left triceps required surgery.
Season performance before the injury
Despite the setbacks, McClanahan resembled the former Rays ace throughout much of 2026. He posted a 10‑7 record with a 3.36 ERA, striking out 106 batters while walking 39 over 118 innings pitched. His performance helped the Rays secure a spot in the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians, which begins Monday in St. Petersburg.
Role on the postseason roster
Although he will not pitch, Cash emphasized that McClanahan will remain with the team throughout the postseason. “Right now, he’s really focused on being the best teammate, which he does … pretty seamlessly, and cheering his buddies on,” Cash said.
The Rays have yet to release their 26‑man roster for the ALCS, but the absence of McClanahan’s arm will force the staff to rely on other starters and the bullpen to navigate the series against Cleveland.
Looking ahead
McClanahan’s recovery timeline beyond the postseason remains uncertain. The Rays’ medical staff will continue to monitor his forearm condition, aiming for a full return to health for the 2027 season. Fans can expect the pitcher to stay involved in team activities, offering veteran insight and morale support as the club pursues a World Series berth.
For now, the focus shifts to the remaining healthy arms on the roster and the strategic adjustments Coach Cash will make as the Rays aim to advance past the Guardians.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
