The Tampa Bay Rays are in prime position heading into the final month of the regular season.
With that being said, they've been here before. The team's last few playoff appearances have been cut short mainly by injury and a lack of depth.
On this week's Rays Roundtable, the staff discusses whether the organization ensured those issues won't arise again this October.
Michael Brauner:It's tough to say they didn't do enough. With aggressive moves that have panned out so far for the most part, the Rays did all they could do to put themselves in the best position possible. Injuries are an unfortunate reality.
Christian Rauh:My gut says yes. Liam Hicks has certainly been a huge addition , and since his arrival, the floor of the offense has certainly lifted to a point where they can win every game. If Freddy Peralta can be seen as a trusted pitcher down the stretch, then they will have my full support.
Michael Brauner:If they can keep up this level of play, it's absolutely enough to feel good about closing out any close game where they are protecting a lead in October. Elite bullpens are what get it done in October, and that is what Tampa Bay has.
Christian Rauh:This had to be the vision from Erik Neander , Kevin Cash, and the rest of the Rays decision-makers. Get a strong enough backend of the bullpen to where games can be shortened in postseason play. That happened on Wednesday despite a subpar start from Drew Rasmussen.
Michael Brauner:It still feels like the Yankees. If Aaron Judge does come back, that's a completely different team and one capable of getting back to the World Series.
Christian Rauh:The Yankees are certainly starting to figure things out and doing it without Judge at the moment is certainly concerning. Will a 5-game lead be enough to hold off the bombers? Tough to say. However, let's go a different route. The Chicago White Sox continue to surprise me, and despite them obviously overachieving this season, they have shown they have enough to spoil a series or two in the postseason.
Michael Brauner:He certainly is on pace to do so. If he gets the opportunities, he will pass Rodney.
Christian Rauh:He basically needs one save every 3-game series the rest of the way to make it happen. The way the Rays offense has been, they will be in contention for a save opportunity often. Let's say yes.
