The Rays' bullpen has undoubtedly been the worst component of their 2026 season. Entering today, only two teams in the majors, the Royals and the Astros, have a worse bullpen ERA. Now, granted the starting pitching are currently in the middle of the pack to balance out the Rays' good fortunes, but if they want to make a deep run this season, the relievers will need to step up their game. A 5.64 ERA is not going to cut it. Therefore, the front office took matters into their own hands and added depth to the bullpen through a former Mariner.
Rays trade for Mariners' relief pitcher Casey Legumina
Casey Legumina was selected by the Twins in the 8th round of the 2019 MLB draft out of Gonzaga University. It was the third time the 6'2 hurler was chosen in the draft as he elected to test his luck and return to college after the 2016 and 2018 drafts. It seemed to work in his favor as the right-hander received his best selection in 2019 and has now risen to the MLB ranks.
His senior year of college saw him display a masterful stat line, going 2-0 with a 1.50 ERA in 24 innings of work. Legumina showed some inconsistencies early on in the Twins' organization though which led to his departure. He was dealt to the Reds for middle infielder Kyle Farmer.
In 2023, the Dallas native made his major league debut against the Phillies. He tossed two innings in relief, giving up just one hit and striking out three opponents. Despite this successful debut, Legumina hasn't been able to produce a positive WAR in any season since 2023. He was traded to the Seattle Mariners prior to the 2025 season and has now been DFA'd by the AL West club after a faulty season that concluded with a 5.62 ERA in a career-high 49.2 innings.
The Rays may have jumped on the opportunity to snag the 29-year-old reliever due to some injury concerns in their bullpen. Mason Englert has reached the IL with right forearm tightness and elite closer Edwin Uceta had a recent setback that will keep him away from the mound even longer. Therefore, depth is necessary for an already struggling pen. Hopefully, Casey Legumina is one of the answers for the Rays moving forward.