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Rays exercise $20 million option on pitcher Drew Rasmussen for 2027

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 1, 2026, 1:34 AM

Last updated Nov 1, 2026

Rays exercise $20 million option on pitcher Drew Rasmussen for 2027

Summary

The Tampa Bay Rays have exercised their $20 million option on ace pitcher Drew Rasmussen for the 2027 season. The decision came as the Rays opted against a $500,000 buyout. Rasmussen had a strong 2026, with a 16-5 record and 2.67 ERA in 30 regular season starts, helping the team secure an AL East title. Postseason performance included a 2-1 record with a 2.20 ERA in five starts. He is set to become a free agent after the next season. The Rays have opted not to pick up mutual options on pitcher Nick Martinez and outfielder Cedric Mullins.

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By the Numbers

•Rays picked up Rasmussen's 2027 option instead of opting for a buyout.
•Rasmussen went 16-5 with a 2.67 ERA in the regular season.
•He had a standout postseason with a 2.20 ERA in five starts.
•Rays declined options for Nick Martinez and Cedric Mullins.
•Rasmussen is a two-time All-Star who can become a free agent after 2027.

Latest Updates

2:27 AMESPN MLB — Rays pick up $20M option for 2027 on ace pitcher Rasmussen
1:16 AMYahoo Sports — AL champion Rays pick up $20 million option on ace pitcher Drew Rasmussen for 2027

What they're saying

"
(AP) — The AL champion Tampa Bay Rays exercised their $20 million option Saturday on ace pitcher Drew Rasmussen.Tampa Bay picked up the 2027 club option on Rasmussen's contract rather than pay him a $500,000 buyout.
— Yahoo Sports