The Rays will play their second series against the Minnesota Twins at home this weekend and it will be their first privilege of facing a former teammate in his return to Tropicana Field. The talented right-handed starter showed the Rays that he could be a formidable force on the mound for years to come, but inconsistencies caused them to move in a different direction. Meanwhile, Bradley has blossomed with his newest club, and he hopes to show Tampa Bay exactly what they've been missing this season.
The Rays drafted Taj Bradley in the 5th round of the 2018 draft out of Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The 6'2 hurler was committed to the University of South Carolina, but he decided to take the Rays' offer and pursue his professional career immediately. It definitely seems to have worked out in his favor as it took only four minor league seasons for the young Bradley to make his debut with the Rays.
The excitement around Taj Bradley's rookie season was evident, but he faltered with his command in the early going. In 2023, the 22-year-old tossed 104 innings, going 5-8 with a 5.59 ERA. His 129 strikeouts were a huge plus though and gave the front office something to build on for the future.
Unfortunately, the inconsistent pitching continued, and Bradley was never able to properly meet his expectations. 2024 was by far his best season in a Rays' uniform, but he still produced a 4.11 ERA through 25 starts.
The Rays' coveted prospect certainly had some stardom moments in Tampa Bay as he was named the American League Pitcher of the Month in July of 2024 after going 3-1 with a 1.45 ERA and 31 punchouts. It was difficult to watch the up-and-down nature of his game, and the front office obviously felt the same way.
One year after his incredible month of July, the Rays traded Taj Bradley to the Twins for hard-throwing reliever Griffin Jax. At the time, it seemed like a steal for the Rays as their rotation was very deep and the bullpen needed some reinforcements. Things have changed, however.
Through his first five starts this season, Taj Bradley is one of the best pitchers in the game. He is 3-0 with a 1.63 ERA which is good for third best in the American League behind the electric Jose Soriano (0.24) and veteran Seth Lugo (1.15). You can't knock the Rays for their aggressive move last season, but something has clicked for Taj Bradley in 2026. Let's see if he can continue his success against his former club that knows him so well.