Drew Rasmussen, formerly of the Milwaukee Brewers, has earned his first All-Star Game selection, stepping in for Yusei Kikuchi. Drafted by the Brewers in 2018, Rasmussen was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays in a deal involving Willy Adames. Since then, he has excelled with a 2.82 ERA and a 1.007 WHIP across 18 starts. However, his career has been marred by injuries, including multiple Tommy John surgeries.

On the Brewers' side, Adames has shown his worth, posting a .344 batting average and 11 home runs this season. The trade has proven mutually beneficial, with both players contributing significantly to their teams.

Brandon Lowe, Tampa Bay Rays' second baseman, has been a vital player since his MLB debut in 2018, notably making two All-Star appearances. His 2025 season started strong, with a .272 batting average, 19 home runs, and 50 RBIs. However, Lowe's health has been a concern, as he struggled with injuries the past few years, limiting his playtime to under 60% of games. Most recently, he was placed on the 10-day injured list due to left oblique tightness, just as the Rays were hoping to capitalize on his offensive contributions for the second half of the season.

Despite Lowe's absence, the Rays remain competitive, currently holding a Wild Card spot with a 50-45 record. His return will be crucial as the team looks to rebound from a rough stretch after a strong June, having lost seven of their last ten games.

The Tampa Bay Rays are in a prime position for a postseason run following the All-Star break, currently sitting as a wild card team. With the trade deadline approaching, the Rays may seek to bolster their roster, especially given their history of making bold trades, including potential moves involving key players on expiring contracts.

Zack Littell, who boasts a solid 3.56 ERA over 19 starts and is set to become a free agent, is a strong candidate to be traded given the Rays' depth in starting pitching. However, the team could opt to retain him as they push towards October. Alternatively, Taj Bradley, who has club control until 2029, might be a candidate for a more lucrative trade if the Rays decide to pursue significant upgrades. The addition of reliever Bryan Baker suggests the team is focused on enhancing their chances this season.

On July 11, the Tampa Bay Rays face off against the Boston Red Sox in a crucial matchup at Fenway Park. With both teams closely vying for playoff positions, the stakes are high. The Red Sox are currently on a seven-game winning streak, having edged out the Rays 4-3 in the series opener, thanks to a decisive seventh-inning rally. Meanwhile, the Rays have struggled, showing a 3-8 record in their last 11 games, raising concerns about their playoff viability.

Tonight's starting pitcher for the Rays is Drew Rasmussen, who has a solid 2.82 ERA this season, while Boston counters with Hunter Dobbins, whose recent performance has been shaky. Betting lines are tight, reflecting the evenly matched teams, with the odds favoring the Rays slightly at -110. With both teams needing a win to maintain momentum, this game promises to be an exciting clash for fans and bettors alike.

The Tampa Bay Rays are slightly ahead in their season with a present record of 50-43, compared to their previous 80-82 finish. However, the competition in the AL East remains fierce, and the upcoming trade deadline on July 31 presents a critical opportunity for upgrades. ESPN's Jeff Passan identified Minnesota Twins' Griffin Jax as an ideal target, dubbing him one of baseball's top relievers. Yet, trading for the 30-year-old may prove challenging, as the Twins also seek to remain competitive in the AL Wild Card race, sitting just 3.5 games out. Other potential options include Jax's teammate, Brock Stewart, as the Rays look to bolster their bullpen.