Rays Call Up Towering Reliever Paul Gervase for MLB Debut
Colaboradores
The Tampa Bay Rays have bolstered their bullpen by selecting the contract of right-handed pitcher Paul Gervase from Triple-A Durham. In a corresponding move, righty Connor Seabold has been optioned back to Triple-A. Gervase, standing at an imposing 6-foot-10, is set to make his Major League Baseball debut.
Gervase, a 12th-round pick by the Mets in the 2022 draft, joined the Rays organization last summer in a trade that sent Tyler Zuber to New York. While his height has always been an advantage, he initially struggled with control. However, a turnaround in Double-A Montgomery saw him strike out 31 batters while significantly reducing his walk rate. This strong performance earned him an invitation to spring training with the Rays.
After a somewhat shaky spring training, Gervase found his groove in Triple-A. Over his last 27 1/3 innings, he struck out 43 and walked just three, posting a 3.29 ERA and a 3.24 FIP. Rays manager Kevin Cash praised Gervase's "really good stuff" and deceptive delivery, highlighting his fastball and slider combination.
Gervase joins a Rays bullpen that currently leads the American League with a 3.11 ERA. The team hopes he can provide valuable innings and solidify his place in the roster. Seabold, who was recently recalled and pitched three scoreless innings, appears to be viewed more as a depth option.
With the call-up, Gervase matches Aaron Slegers as the tallest players in Rays history. He's also one of only nine major league pitchers to stand 6-foot-10 or taller. The tallest ever are Jon Rauch and Sean Hjelle, both towering at 6-foot-11.
Gervase's Journey to the Majors
Gervase's path to the majors has been unique. After being drafted from LSU, following stints at several smaller colleges, he quickly impressed with his performance at Triple A Durham.
Rays Look for Bullpen Stability
With several recent moves aimed at strengthening the relief corps, the Rays are clearly prioritizing bullpen depth. The addition of Gervase, with his impressive strikeout rate and imposing presence, could be a significant boost.