Kim Shuts Down with Back Issue, Rays Place Star Shortstop on IL

Rays Shuffle Roster: Kim to IL, DeLuca Activated

Tampa Bay, FL – July 19, 2025 – The Tampa Bay Rays have made meaningful roster adjustments, placing shortstop Ha-Seong Kim on the 10-day injured list with lower back pain, the team announced friday. The move is retroactive to Tuesday.

kim, 29, sustained the injury during Monday’s loss to the Chicago White Sox and has been sidelined since. This latest setback adds to a challenging start to his tenure with the Rays, who signed him to a two-year, $29 million deal in the offseason.Kim has appeared in just 10 games, hitting.226 with one home run and three RBIs. He was expected to anchor the shortstop position after recovering from offseason right shoulder surgery and a hamstring injury during his rehabilitation.

In a corresponding move,the Rays activated outfielder jonny DeLuca from the 60-day injured list. DeLuca, 27, had been out since april with a right shoulder issue. He impressed in his brief stint earlier this season, batting .435 (10-for-23) with one RBI in nine games. His return was delayed by multiple setbacks.

The Rays also recalled left-hander Mason Montgomery from Triple-A Durham and designated right-hander Jacob Waguespack for assignment. Montgomery, 25, has posted a 5.74 ERA in 40 relief appearances for the Rays this season. Waguespack, 31, had a strong performance in the minors with a 0.46 ERA in 15 outings. The move to designate Waguespack reportedly opened a 40-man roster spot for DeLuca. The club had an open roster spot following the optioning of right-hander Taj Bradley to Durham on Thursday.

How will Wander franco’s IL placement affect the Rays’ chances of securing a Wild Card spot?

Impact on the Tampa bay Rays’ Playoff Push

the Tampa Bay Rays have suffered a important blow as star shortstop Wander Franco has been placed on the 15-day injured list (IL) due to a persistent back issue. This news, confirmed on july 26, 2025, throws a wrench into the Rays’ playoff aspirations and raises concerns about their ability to maintain their competitive edge in the American League East. The timing couldn’t be worse, as the team is currently battling for a Wild Card spot.

Details of Franco’s Injury & IL Placement

franco has been dealing with lower back discomfort for several weeks,initially attempting to play through the pain. Though, after a recent series against the Boston Red sox, the issue worsened, prompting the Rays to seek further evaluation.

Diagnosis: The team has not disclosed the specific nature of the back injury, citing only “lower back discomfort.”

IL Placement Date: July 26, 2025.

15-Day IL: This means Franco will be ineligible to play for at least 15 days, though the recovery timeline could be longer depending on his progress.

Roster Move: To fill Franco’s roster spot, the Rays have recalled utility infielder Vidal Bruján from Triple-A Durham.

Bruján Steps Up: What to Expect

Vidal Bruján, a highly-regarded prospect, will be expected to shoulder some of the duty at shortstop in Franco’s absence. While Bruján possesses considerable talent, filling the shoes of a player like Franco is a daunting task.

Bruján’s Stats (as of July 26, 2025): .275 batting average, 8 home runs, 35 RBIs in 65 games with durham.

Defensive Versatility: Bruján can play multiple infield positions, offering the Rays adaptability in their lineup.

Offensive Potential: He’s known for his speed and ability to get on base,possibly providing a spark to the offense.

Expectations: while Bruján is a capable player, the Rays will likely need contributions from other players to offset the loss of Franco’s offensive and defensive prowess.

Rays’ Shortstop Depth & Potential Solutions

Beyond Bruján, the Rays have limited options at shortstop within their current 40-man roster. This situation highlights the importance of internal advancement and potentially exploring trade options.

1. Taylor Walls: Primarily a second baseman,Walls has experience at shortstop and could see increased playing time.
2. Internal Prospects: The Rays’ farm system boasts several promising infield prospects,but none are currently considered major league-ready.
3. Trade Market: Depending on the severity of Franco’s injury and the team’s performance, the Rays could explore acquiring a shortstop via trade before the August 31st trade deadline. Potential targets could include players from teams looking to rebuild.

Fantasy Baseball Implications

Wander Franco’s IL stint has significant implications for fantasy baseball managers.

Immediate Drop/Waiver: Fantasy owners should promptly assess their options and consider dropping Franco if roster space is limited, given the uncertain recovery timeline.

bruján Waiver Wire: Vidal Bruján is a valuable waiver wire pickup,especially in deeper leagues,due to the possibility he’ll receive at shortstop.

Rays’ Offensive Outlook: The Rays’ overall offensive outlook takes a hit with Franco sidelined,potentially impacting the value of other players on the team.

Historical Context: Rays & Key Injuries

The Tampa bay Rays have a history of overcoming adversity, frequently enough navigating key injuries to remain competitive. In 2023, the team faced numerous injuries to starting pitchers, yet still managed to reach the postseason. This resilience is a hallmark of the organization.

2023 Pitching Injuries: The Rays lost several key starters to injury in 2023, including Shane McClanahan and Jeffrey Springs.

Organizational Depth: The Rays’ ability to identify and develop talent from within has been crucial to their success in overcoming injuries.

Managerial Adaptability: Manager Kevin Cash is known for his ability to adjust the lineup and utilize players effectively, regardless of the circumstances.

Monitoring Franco’s Recovery

The Rays will closely monitor Franco’s progress throughout his time on the IL. Updates on his condition will be provided as they become available. Fantasy owners and Rays fans alike will be eagerly awaiting positive news regarding his recovery. The team’s success in the second half of the season may very well hinge on his ability to return to the field healthy and productive.