Tampa Bay Rays shake up their bullpen, letting closer Pete Fairbanks walk as free agency looms. Will this decision haunt their late-inning strategy next season? Kevin and Ulises debate the front office’s move, dissecting Fairbanks’ value, the impact on fan morale, and the challenge of replacing a reliable arm. With the Rays experimenting, could a closer-by-committee approach or a surprise trade be on the horizon? Brandon Lowe’s option secures him as a key offensive leader, while Taylor Walls gets penciled in as the starting shortstop for 2026 with defensive versatility and a new contract option. The hosts break down payroll priorities, position battles, and rising prospects like Carson Williams, questioning whether the lineup’s power and adaptability can offset bullpen uncertainties. Hear expert analysis on what the latest roster moves mean for the Rays’ playoff ambitions and future identity. Follow Kevin Weiss @KevinWeiss_ Follow Ulises Sambrano @SambranoUlises Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-rays/ Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/mlb/ #Rays #TampaBayRays #MLB Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONMLB to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. PrizePicks — Run Your Game. Click Link Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONMLB Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
