Drew Rasmussen
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2023Lightning28281211190220.2169845920483.43
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MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 30 2025Rasmussen took a no-decision after throwing three innings, allowing four runs on five hits and one walk while striking out two, during Monday's 6-4 loss to the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has pitched into at least the fifth inning in every single one of his 16 prior starts, but didn't even make it into the fourth inning Monday. The 29-year-old allowed four runs, tied for his most in an outing all year, and only threw 54 pitches before his evening came to an end. It was an early ambush from the Athletics that accounted for most of the damage, with Shea Langeliers hitting just the third home run that Rasmussen has allowed in his last nine starts. The right-hander will have a chance to rebound over the weekend as his next scheduled start is Sunday at the Twins.
Jun 25 2025Rasmussen (7-5) tallied the win Wednesday against the Royals, giving up no runs on two hits and two walks in five innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Wednesday marked the seventh scoreless start of the year for Rasmussen, who scattered two singles. The 29-year-old right-hander was somewhat curiously pulled after throwing just 62 pitches, his fewest of the season, but it appears the Rays are remaining cautious about his workload after he missed over a year of action across 2023 and 2024 due to elbow surgery. Rasmussen has yet to toss greater than six innings in any of his outings, but he still owns an outstanding 2.45 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 72:20 K:BB across 84.1 frames. His next start is projected to come at home versus the Athletics.
Jun 19 2025Rasmussen (6-5) allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out five over 5.1 innings to take the loss Thursday versus the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen pitched well for the most part, but he allowed a leadoff single to Gunnar Henderson in the sixth inning that sparked Baltimore's rally. Reliever Edwin Uceta couldn't stop it, and after he allowed the inherited runner to score, Rasmussen ended up taking his first loss since May 11. He had allowed just six runs over 34 innings across his previous six starts, and Thursday's effort was by no means a bad performance. The right-hander has maintained a 2.61 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 67:18 K:BB through 79.1 innings over 15 starts this season. Rasmussen is projected for a road start in Kansas City his next time out.
Jun 14 2025Rasmussen (6-4) earned the win over the Mets on Saturday, allowing four runs on seven hits and one walk while striking out three batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen didn't have his best stuff Saturday, as he notched a modest eight whiffs while serving up a pair of homers and needing 87 pitches to get through five frames. However, he got plenty of run support and went just deep enough to record his fifth victory over his past six starts. This was easily the right-hander's least impressive outing during that stretch -- he allowed two runs over the previous five outings combined, and the seven hits he allowed Saturday marked a season high. This was also just the second time across 14 appearances this season that Rasmussen has given up four runs, which speaks volumes about how well he's pitched overall. The veteran hurler has a 2.55 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 62:15 K:BB through 74 frames.
Jun 8 2025Rasmussen allowed two runs on six hits and a walk in a no-decision Sunday against Miami. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Rasmussen's four-start scoreless streak ended in the first inning Sunday, the right-hander was able to settle in and hold the Marlins to one run over his final five frames, picking up a fourth quality start in his last five outings. The 29-year-old Rasmussen's ERA sits at 2.22 through 13 starts (69 innings) this year with a 0.90 WHIP and 59:14 K:BB. He's currently slated to face the Mets on the road in his next outing.
Jun 3 2025Rasmussen (5-4) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one hit and no walks over five scoreless innings against Texas. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has been nearly untouchable lately, and that dominance carried into Tuesday's win. The right-hander has fired 23 consecutive scoreless innings, last allowing a run May 11. In his previous three scoreless outings, the 29-year-old averaged just 4.3 strikeouts, but he showed encouraging swing-and-miss stuff Tuesday by fanning eight Rangers. After injuries disrupted his 2023 and 2024 campaigns, Rasmussen has settled into the rotation and is thriving in 2025.
May 28 2025Rasmussen (4-4) earned the win Wednesday over Minnesota, allowing one hit and one walk over six scoreless innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has been stellar of late, winning his last three starts with three consecutive scoreless outings -- he's allowed just eight hits across 18 innings in that span. The 29-year-old right-hander has lowered his ERA to 2.33 on the year with a 0.93 WHIP and 48:13 K:BB through 11 starts (58 innings). Rasmussen will look to extend his scoreless streak in his outing, tentatively lined up for next week against the Rangers.
May 24 2025Rasmussen (3-4) picked up the win Friday, allowing four hits and two walks over six scoreless innings in a 3-1 victory over the Blue Jays. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second straight quality start, and second straight scoreless outing, for Rasmussen, who kept Toronto's bats in check despite generating only four swinging strikes among his 76 pitches (43 strikes). The 29-year-old righty has given up more than three runs only once in 10 trips to the mound this season, and he'll take a 2.60 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 43:12 K:BB through 52 innings into his next start, which lines up to come at home next week against the Twins.
May 23 2025Rasmussen is having his workload restrictions loosened, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen missed 15 months following a hybrid procedure to repair the UCL in his right elbow in May of 2023, which was his third career elbow operation, and the Rays have understandably treated him with kid gloves to begin the season. In his last outing against the Brewers on Sunday however, he completed six innings for the first time since his latest surgery. Rasmussen threw only 81 pitches in that outing, has yet to reach the 90-pitch mark this season and has made a start on four days' rest just once. While it's not clear exactly how much his workload will increase, being allowed to pitch deeper into games will improve his counting stats outlook, as well as his odds of collecting wins and quality starts.
May 17 2025Rasmussen (2-4) earned the win against the Marlins on Saturday, allowing four hits and no walks while striking out five over six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen needed only 81 pitches to complete six frames for the first time this year. While Saturday marked his first win since his season debut March 31, the 29-year-old has allowed three earned runs or fewer in eight of nine starts. He'll carry a 2.93 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 40:10 K:BB across 46 innings into a home matchup with the Blue Jays next weekend.
May 11 2025Rasmussen (1-4) took the loss against the Brewers on Sunday, allowing three runs on four hits and one walk with three strikeouts over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen surrendered back-to-back home runs in the fourth inning and was charged with his third straight loss. He's now allowed three earned runs or more in four of his past five outings and hasn't recorded a win since his season debut. Still, the 29-year-old owns a solid 3.38 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 35:10 K:BB across 40 innings and lines up for a favorable matchup with the Marlins next weekend.
May 6 2025Rasmussen (1-3) yielded three runs on five hits and two walks over 4.1 innings Tuesday, striking out two and taking a loss against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was not very effective Tuesday, but all the damage against him came during the second inning. He gave up a solo shot to Kyle Schwarber followed by Alec Bohm's two-run homer. Rasmussen completed at least five innings in each of his first six starts but has yet to finish six frames in any outing this year. Despite some recent shakiness (10 earned runs over his last 14.1 innings), he still owns a 3.09 ERA with a 32:9 K:BB through 35 innings. Rasmussen is currently lined up for a home matchup with the Brewers this weekend.
Apr 30 2025Rasmussen (1-2) took the loss Wednesday against the Royals after allowing three runs on six hits and one walk in five innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the sixth time in as many starts to begin the season, Rasmussen hurled at least five innings Wednesday. However, the right-hander gave up a season-high six hits and fanned a season-low three. The Rays appear to be monitoring Rasmussen's workload after he missed nearly 15 months from 2023 to 2024 following elbow surgery, considering the hurler has yet to reach the 90-pitch marker in any of his six outings this year. He sports a 2.64 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 30:7 K:BB over his first 30.2 innings of the campaign ahead of his next appearance, currently projected for next week in a difficult task versus the Phillies.
Apr 18 2025Rasmussen (1-1) took the loss against the Yankees on Friday. He allowed one run on three hits and three walks while striking out seven across 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen put together another strong performance Friday, tossing 84 pitches (of which 58 were strikes) while generating 17 whiffs and fanning seven batters for a second straight game. The RBI single that he gave up to Trent Grisham in the second inning was Rasmussen's only blemish, but he still came away with the loss due to the lack of run support from the Tampa Bay offense. Rasmussen has allowed only two runs across his four outings and sports a 0.82 WHIP and 22:5 K:BB in 20.2 innings. He's in line to face the Diamondbacks on the road next week, when he'll look to get back into the win column.
Apr 12 2025Rasmussen did not factor into the decision in Saturday's 5-4 loss to Atlanta, allowing four hits and one walk with seven strikeouts over five scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was sharp, generating 10 whiffs on 80 pitches and exiting with a 2-0 lead before the Rays' bullpen let it slip away. He has been dominant to open the season, posting a 0.60 ERA, 0.73 WHIP and 15:2 K:BB across 15 innings. The only knock on the 29-year-old so far is his workload, as he has yet to pitch beyond the fifth frame in any of his three starts. Even so, he'll aim to stay hot in a home matchup with the Yankees next week.
Apr 6 2025Rasmussen allowed one run on three hits and a walk while striking out four in five innings Sunday against the Rangers. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was fantastic again Sunday and was able to generate a ton of weak contact with his cutter. The Rangers managed just three singles against him, though two of them came in the third, leading to a run. Rasmussen's command continues to be a strength of his. Up until his fourth-inning walk, the 30-year-old righty had not walked a batter in six straight starts. He'll look to keep it rolling in a home start versus Atlanta next weekend.
Mar 31 2025Rasmussen (1-0) picked up the win after allowing two hits and no walks in five scoreless innings Monday against the Pirates. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was sharp in his season debut Monday, scattering two singles against a Pittsburgh lineup that offered little to no resistance. The right-hander made just four starts (16 appearances) a year ago after missing most of 2023 due to an internal brace procedure, but he should serve as a full-time member of Tampa Bay's rotation this season. Rasmussen's next appearance is slated to come this weekend in Texas, which would be a tougher test.
Mar 22 2025Rasmussen threw 4.2 scoreless innings, allowing two hits and one walk while striking out three in Friday's Grapefruit League game against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen continues to ramp up, with Friday's outing marking his longest of the spring. He's been in a battle for the rotation spot for the last month, though Joe Boyle was demoted to Triple-A Durham on Saturday while Shane McClanahan (triceps) won't be ready to begin the season. That seemingly sets up Rasmussen to occupy a rotation spot.
Mar 15 2025Rasmussen allowed three earned runs on five hits while striking out six and walking none across four innings in Saturday's Grapefruit League game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This marked Rasmussen's second official spring start, though he completed three innings in a live batting practice session March 9. In addition to impressively striking out six batters, his was something of a milestone for Rasmussen as he hadn't completed more than two innings since May of 2023 due to an elbow injury. Per Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, Rasmussen is operating as a starter, but it remains unclear how the Rays will sort out their starting rotation to begin the season.
Mar 6 2025Rasmussen threw two scoreless innings during which he allowed one hit and one walk in Monday's Grapefruit League game against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has dealt with elbow injuries across the last two seasons, severely limiting his innings. However, he's still being stretched out as a starter this spring and managed 29 pitches in his spring training debut. Per Adam Berry of MLB.com, manager Kevin Cash has stated the team will use common sense when monitoring Rasmussen's workload, which could mean he is initially used in shorter stints or his turn through the rotation is occasionally skipped.
Feb 20 2025Rasmussen threw live batting practice Wednesday and is preparing for the season as a starter, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has been limited to only 24 total appearances across the last two seasons due to elbow issues, and he didn't pitch more than two innings in any outing in 2024 after returning to the mound in early August. However, he'll be set to work on a five-day starter's schedule throughout spring, something he believes will keep him healthier rather than potentially pitching back-to-back days out of the bullpen. The Rays have seven potential starters, so it is unclear how they will craft their rotation to begin the 2025 campaign.
Jan 7 2025The Rays and Rasmussen avoided arbitration Tuesday by agreeing to a two-year, $8 million contract extension, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The deal also includes an $8 million club option for 2027, which could escalate to as high as $20 million if Rasmussen reaches all of his health and innings pitched incentives. There's a $500,000 buyout attached to the option, so the right-hander is guaranteed a total of $8.5 million with the extension. Rasmussen looked sharp in 2024 in his return from an internal brace procedure, holding a 2.83 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 35:6 K:BB over 28.2 innings. He is expected to return to the rotation full time in 2025, though he will have significant workload restrictions in place after totaling just 80.2 frames since the start of the 2023 season.
Sep 21 2024Rasmussen earned the save against the Blue Jays on Saturday, striking out three over two perfect innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen totaled 28 pitches over two innings and earned his first save since 2021. The 29-year-old has posted a 2.55 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 29:6 K:BB across 24.2 innings this season while working as an opener and reliever.
Sep 13 2024Rasmussen will serve as the Rays' opener for Saturday's game versus the Guardians, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has put up a 2.79 ERA and 1.09 WHIP across 19.1 innings this season, and he'll now be entrusted with at least the first three batters of Saturday's contest, though most of his appearances this season have lasted two full innings. Tyler Alexander is expected to handle bulk-relief duties once Rasmussen exits.
Sep 12 2024Rasmussen (0-1) allowed one earned run in two hits and a walk while striking out one over 1.2 innings to take the loss against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has pitched in a multi-inning relief role since being activated from the injured list Aug. 7. He has been effective for the most part, turning in eight scoreless appearances in 11 chances while also tallying two holds. Even in Wednesday's loss, Rasmussen wasn't hit particularly hard as he surrendered two singles to account for the majority of the damage against him.
Aug 28 2024Rasmussen will serve as the Rays' opening pitcher for Wednesday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen will be making his third start of the season, but as was the case on the previous two occasions, he'll likely be limited to one or two innings. Tyler Alexander is expected to be deployed as a bulk reliever behind Rasmussen.
Aug 17 2024Rasmussen will serve as the Rays' opening pitcher for Sunday against Arizona, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen will make his second start of the season Sunday, though he's expected to pitch just one or two innings before handing the ball off to Tyler Alexander. Rasmussen has yielded no runs in two of his three appearances since being activated from the 60-day IL.
Aug 10 2024Rasmussen is slated to serve as the Rays' opening pitcher for Saturday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After returning from the 60-day injured list Wednesday upon completing his recovery from the internal brace procedure he underwent last July, Rasmussen was summoned from the bullpen later that evening and was electric in his 2024 MLB debut, striking out three Cardinals batters over two perfect innings. Though the Rays intend to have Rasmussen slot back into the rotation in 2025, he's expected to be limited mostly to 1-to-2-inning appearances coming out of the bullpen for the rest of the current season. Though he's technically starting Saturday, Rasmussen is unlikely to work more than once through the batting order before turning the game over to lefty Tyler Alexander, who is expected to operate as a bulk reliever.
Aug 7 2024The Rays reinstated Rasmussen (elbow) from the 60-day injured list Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen is expected to vie for a spot in the Tampa Bay rotation in 2025, but he'll be operating as a reliever down the stretch of the current season while he makes his return from the internal brace procedure he underwent last July. Though Rasmussen had a pair of Tommy John surgeries on his resume before he underwent his latest elbow operation last summer, he didn't seem to have much trouble regaining velocity or control during his rehab assignment. Over his five appearances at Triple-A Durham, Rasmussen gave up seven runs on 11 hits over 7.1 innings, but his 8:0 K:BB was encouraging. He's expected to operate as a one- or two-inning reliever for the Rays and will likely be eased back in with low-leverage work, though he could eventually push for usage in higher-leverage spots.
Aug 4 2024Rasmussen (elbow) is getting close to returning from the injured list, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen made his fifth rehab appearance with Triple-A Durham on Saturday and completed two innings while allowing two runs. Despite the fact that he has allowed seven earned runs across his last 3.1 frames, the Rays are expected to activate Rasmussen in the coming week. He is set to work out of the bullpen.
Jul 25 2024Rasmussen (elbow) gave up one hit and struck out a batter over a scoreless inning during his rehab appearance Wednesday with Triple-A Durham. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has tossed a pair of scoreless frames over his first two rehab outings with Durham and doesn't seem to be showing any signs of rust as he makes his way back from the internal brace procedure he underwent on his right elbow July 24, 2023. Not only has he yet to issue a walk, but he's also been flashing premium velocity on his rehab assignment; six of his 16 pitches Wednesday clocked in at over 96 miles per hour, and he maxed out at 98.3 mph. Though the Rays envision Rasmussen slotting back into the rotation in 2025, he'll be joining the big club as a reliever this season once he's activated from the 60-day injured list.
Jul 21 2024Rasmussen (elbow) recorded a strikeout as part of a 1-2-3 first inning in his rehab start Sunday with Triple-A Durham. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen spotted 11 of his 15 pitches for strikes in the rehab outing, his first competitive action at any level since he underwent an internal brace procedure on his right elbow last July. Though the right-hander is expected to prepare for a starting role with the big club heading into the 2025 season, the Rays will ease him back from elbow surgery as a multi-inning reliever in 2024. Rasmussen will likely make at least a few more appearances in the minors before the Rays bring him back from the 60-day injured list, likely in early-to-mid August.
Jul 19 2024Rasmussen (elbow) will make his first rehab start with Triple-A Durham on Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen began the season on the 60-day injured list after undergoing an internal brace procedure in July of 2023. He started throwing bullpen sessions in May, and the 28-year-old right-hander is ready to take the next step in his rehab program. Barring any setbacks from his rehab outings, Rasmussen should return to the majors and work out of Tampa Bay's bullpen, with the aim to resume pitching out of the rotation in 2025, per Evan Closky of 10 Tampa Bay.
Jul 10 2024The Rays plan to bring Rasmussen (elbow) back as a reliever this season, Evan Closky of 10 Tampa Bay WTSP reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen had an internal brace procedure on his right elbow last July. Between the Rays' rotation depth and the length of time it would take to build him back up as a starter, it makes sense that the righty is being viewed as a reliever in 2024. The plan will be to return Rasmussen to the rotation in 2025. Rasmussen is slated to throw a live batting practice session Saturday, with the goal to begin a rehab assignment shortly after the All-Star break.
Jul 9 2024Rasmussen (elbow) is scheduled to throw live batting practice Saturday and is aiming to begin a rehab assignment following the All-Star break, Steve Carney of StPeteNine.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen underwent an internal brace procedure in his throwing elbow in July of 2023 and has been throwing off a mound since the end of May. While the 28-year-old is still a few weeks out from embarking on what's expected to be a lengthy minor-league rehab stint, Rasmussen appears to be on track to pitch for the Rays this season and could even be cleared before September.
May 21 2024Rasmussen (elbow) was scheduled to throw a bullpen session Tuesday at the Rays' spring training facility, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An MLB.com report earlier this month suggested that Rasmussen had been slated to pitch in an extended spring training game May 20, but it's unclear if that actually came to fruition. In any case, Rasmussen's ability to step back on a mound Tuesday represents a positive step forward in his recovery from the internal brace procedure he underwent on his right elbow July 24, 2023. Though the hybrid procedure is designed to accelerate Rasmussen's recovery timeline compared to Tommy John surgery, expect the Rays to ease him along slowly through his throwing program, given that he had previously underwent two Tommy John surgeries earlier in his career. President of baseball operations Erik Neander said in spring training that Rasmussen could be an option to rejoin the big-league pitching staff in the latter months of the 2024 season if all goes well in his rehab program.
May 8 2024Rasmussen (elbow) is progressing well in his recovery from the hybrid internal brace procedure he underwent July 24, 2023 and is scheduled to pitch in a game at extended spring training May 20, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen already had two Tommy John surgeries on his resume before opting for the brace procedure last July, and he's seemingly bounced back from his latest elbow operation as well as the Rays could have hoped less than 10 months into his recovery. Since the Rays have already pinpointed a target date for him to pitch in a game -- albeit in a controlled environment -- Rasmussen is seemingly at the point in his rehab that he's facing hitters in live batting practice. The 28-year-old is likely targeting a return from the 60-day injured list in August or September.
Feb 20 2024The Rays placed Rasmussen (elbow) on the 60-day injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen underwent an internal brace procedure in July and isn't expected to return until late in the season, so the Rays will stash him away on the IL for the time being. Rasmussen's roster spot will be given to Amed Rosario, who signed with Tampa Bay on Tuesday.
Feb 13 2024Rays president of baseball operations Erik Neander indicated Tuesday that he doesn't expect Rasmussen (elbow) back until well into the second half of the season, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Neander listed July or August as a timetable for Jeffrey Springs (elbow) and added that Rasmussen's return isn't expected until sometime after that. The right-hander underwent an internal brace procedure in July and probably can't be counted on as an impact fantasy option again until 2025.
Jan 11 2024Rasmussen (elbow) signed a one-year, $1.8625 million contract with the Rays on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A right flexor strain put an early end to Rasmussen's season in May, and the 28-year-old righty underwent an internal brace procedure in July that will cause him to miss the first half of 2024. Rasmussen has been a key part of the Rays' rotation since joining the team in 2021, but his fantasy value going forward will be dependent on how well he's able to perform post-injury.
Jul 8 2023Rasmussen (elbow) will undergo an internal brace procedure and won't return until the middle of next season, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Rays had previously hoped that Rasmussen would be able to return late in this season after he hit the 60-day injured list with a right flexor strain in mid-May, but that won't be the case. The righty will avoid undergoing Tommy John surgery for the third time in his career, but not by a very wide margin. The internal brace alternative is a similar surgery and carries a recovery time that's at best only somewhat shorter.
May 12 2023Rasmussen was placed on the 60-day injured list by the Rays on Friday with a right flexor strain, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen just tossed seven shutout innings against the Yankees on Thursday, but evidently he must have felt something in his elbow and/or forearm after the outing. He's hoping to avoid surgery, per Topkin, but will be facing a lengthy absence regardless. Rasmussen has already had Tommy John surgery twice. It's a major blow to a rotation that has already lost Jeffrey Springs to Tommy John surgery and is still awaiting the season debut of Tyler Glasnow (oblique). Taj Bradley has struggled in his last few starts at Triple-A Durham but would still seem to be an obvious candidate to replace Rasmussen in the Tampa Bay rotation.
May 11 2023Rasmussen (4-2) earned the win against the Yankees on Thursday, with seven shutout innings while allowing two hits. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second time this month, Rasmussen stifled the Yankees. He tossed 5.2 shutout innings Saturday and has not allowed a run in 21 career innings against the Yankees. The righty has been excellent for the first-place Rays this season with a 2.62 ERA. For the first time in his career, he is striking out more than a batter per inning, with 47 punchouts in 44.2 innings.
May 1 2023Rasmussen allowed three runs on nine hits while striking out three over five innings against the White Sox on Sunday. He did not walk a batter nor did he factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox got to Rasmussen in the opening frame with a pair of singles and a sacrifice fly. He faced little resistance through the order until the sixth inning, during which he allowed a leadoff base hit before Yasmani Grandal sent one over the wall in center to put the Sox ahead 3-2. Rasmussen's day would conclude abruptly following the home run ball. It was just the second homer he's let up this year, but he's been knocked around quite a bit, allowing at least eight hits in three of his last four outings while failing to surpass five innings. The 27-year-old has been hit or miss in six starts this season and now owns a 3.66 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 34:9 K:BB over 32 innings. He's lined up to take the mound in a divisional clash with the Yankees next weekend.
Apr 4 2023Rasmussen (1-0) earned the win over Washington on Monday, yielding two hits and no walks while striking out seven batters over six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was very efficient in his first outing of the season, needing only 66 pitches to make it through six fames. The right-hander surrendered just a pair of singles and threw 50 of 66 pitches for strikes en route to the win. Rasmussen has been somewhat undervalued in fantasy despite posting a 2.84 ERA and 1.04 WHIP as a full-time starter last season, but more appearances like Monday's could help him develop more hype. He's tentatively scheduled to face a weak-hitting Oakland offense at home in his next start.
Mar 17 2023Rasmussen allowed one run (none earned) on one hit and one walk while striking out three across three innings in Monday's Grapefruit League game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was hit hard in his first outing of the exhibition season, but he rebounded his second time out. In addition to the solid line, he also ramped up to 47 pitches and should continue to stretch out across his next couple of appearances prior to the regular season. Rasmussen is coming off a breakout campaign in which he transitioned from a reliever to a full-time starter and posted a 2.84 ERA and 1.04 WHIP across 146 innings.
Oct 4 2022Rasmussen will not make his scheduled start Wednesday in Boston as the Rays look to line him up for the postseason, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This makes sense from the team's perspective. Rasmussen had a 2.40 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 55 strikeouts in 63.2 innings over his final 11 appearances. It's unclear who will make the spot start Wednesday.
Oct 1 2022Rasmussen (11-7) gave up two earned runs on five hits and no walks while striking out three over seven innings to earn the win in a 7-3 victory over the Astros on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen continued his superb 2022 campaign with a win over the best team in the American League to clinch the Rays a postseason berth. Rasmussen did not walk a batter and lasted seven strong innings despite throwing only 73 pitches. The 27-year-old right-hander has shown excellent control by walking only 31 batters in 146 innings pitched this season. He is tentatively expected to make his final regular season start of the year at Boston next week, although that could change depending on how the Rays plan to use him in the playoffs.
Sep 25 2022Rasmussen (10-7) took the loss Saturday, allowing one run on three hits and two walks over 6.1 innings against the Blue Jays. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen surrendered a double from Teoscar Hernandez in the seventh inning prior to exiting the game, so he was charged with one of the three runs from second baseman Whit Merrifield's seventh-inning blast off lefty reliever Brooks Raley. The righty has recorded three straight losses, allowing nine runs in 16.1 innings over that span. The 27-year-old's home results have been much better as he boasts a 2.24 ERA and 0.83 WHIP over 76.1 innings compared to a 3.59 ERA and 1.34 WHIP over 62.2 innings on the road.
Sep 20 2022Rasmussen (10-6) allowed four runs on six hits and one walk while striking out three batters over six innings to take the loss against Houston on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen served up a game-opening homer to Jose Altuve in the first inning, but he limited Houston to that one run through five frames. However, the Astros tagged him for three runs in the sixth, which was more than enough to send him to defeat in a game during which the Rays were shut out. Rasmussen has given up eight earned runs in his last two starts, resulting in his first two-game losing streak of the campaign. He's pitched to a strong 2.92 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 117:29 K:BB over 132.2 innings overall on the campaign.
Sep 14 2022Rasmussen (10-5) took the loss Wednesday, allowing four runs on six hits and one walk over four innings in a 5-1 loss against the Blue Jays. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was not at his best Wednesday as he allowed four runs for the first time since June 10. The Blue Jays got to him early, as Vladimir Guerrero hit a solo shot in the first inning, and Rasmussen never settled in as he allowed runs in the third and fourth innings. He recorded two quality starts in a row leading up to Wednesday, so he will look to get back to form in his next scheduled start against Houston next week.
Sep 10 2022Rasmussen (10-4) earned the win against the Yankees on Friday, allowing no runs on six hits while striking out 10 and walking none over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen tossed a six-inning gem Friday, throwing 68 of 94 pitches for strikes and stranding six Yankees baserunners. In typical Tampa fashion, it has been very careful with his innings, as Rasmussen has finished the sixth inning only seven times in 24 starts. The righty earned a quality start in each game where he has lasted through the sixth inning or longer, including Friday's win over the Yanks. The 10 strikeouts marks a single-game season high for Rasmussen, who will take a 2.57 ERA into his next appearance.
Sep 9 2022Rasmussen (personal) was reinstated from the paternity list Friday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was scratched from his scheduled start Tuesday in anticipation of the birth of his first child and is now ready to return to the team. The 27-year-old righty holds a minuscule 1.59 ERA and 0.53 WHIP over his last five starts.
Sep 6 2022The Rays officially placed Rasmussen (personal) on the paternity list Tuesday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The transaction opens up a spot on the 28-man active roster for Yonny Chirinos (elbow), who was reinstated from the 60-day injured list in a corresponding move. Rasmussen had been scheduled to start Tuesday's game against the Red Sox, but after he left the team in anticipation of the birth of his first child, the Rays will have JT Chargois serve as their opening pitcher. Chirinos, meanwhile, built up to three innings in his most recent rehab start Thursday and could be deployed behind Chargois as a primary pitcher. Rasmussen will be away from the Rays for the next 1-to-3 days and could reclaim a rotation spot this weekend against the Yankees.
Sep 1 2022Rasmussen didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 2-1 extra-inning win over the Marlins, allowing one run on four hits over six innings. He struck out four without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander battled Trevor Rogers for five scoreless innings before Jon Berti (hip) popped a solo shot to left-center field in the sixth, but the Rays got Rasmussen off the hook for a loss right away with a run in the bottom of the frame. The 27-year-old delivered his sixth quality start of the season, and since the All-Star break he's reeled off eight straight outings giving up two earned runs or less -- a stretch in which Rasmussen boasts a 1.84 ERA, 0.86 WHIP and 41:6 K:BB through 44 innings.
Aug 25 2022Rasmussen (9-4) allowed one earned run on six hits and one walk while striking out nine across 5.1 innings to earn the win Thursday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen allowed only a solo home run to Taylor Ward and tallied a win in his third consecutive start. He has allowed only four earned runs across 19.1 innings in that span while also maintaining a 24:2 K:BB. With that strong stretch, he now owns a 2.77 ERA across 110.2 frames for the season.
Aug 20 2022Rasmussen (8-4) earned the win Saturday, allowing two runs on two hits and one walk over 5.2 innings against the Royals. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen allowed only one extra-base hit in the form of a double from shortstop Bobby Witt. The righty has been particularly effective lately with a 33:6 K:BB and a 0.83 WHIP over 38.2 innings over his last seven starts. In addition, the 27-year-old has been significantly better at home with a 1.99 ERA and 0.75 WHIP in 58.2 innings compared to a 3.86 ERA and 1.44 WHIP in 46.2 innings away from Tampa Bay.
Aug 14 2022Rasmussen (7-4) earned the win Sunday against Baltimore, striking out seven and allowing a run on one hit in 8.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen came within three outs of tossing a perfect game Sunday but his efforts were thwarted when Jorge Mateo knocked a double on the first pitch of the ninth inning. It was an efficient outing as he tossed 87 pitches - 62 strikes. He was removed with one out in the ninth after his second wild pitch of the inning led to a runner reaching safely after a dropped third strike. Since returning from a hamstring injury at the beginning of July, he's compiled a 1.94 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 33:9 K:BB in 41.2 innings over eight starts.
Aug 7 2022Rasmussen was lifted in the top of the fourth inning of his start in Sunday's 7-0 win over the Tigers in a "baseball decision," Ryan Bass of Bally Sports Sun reports. He struck out two over three no-hit innings and didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Kevin Cash made no indication that Rasmussen would be limited while returning to the mound Sunday on his standard four days' rest, but that's exactly what happened, even though the right-hander faced one more than the minimum through three innings while throwing just 33 pitches. Since he departed with the game tied 0-0, Rasmussen didn't come away with the win after Tampa Bay plated all seven of their runs in the top of the ninth inning. The early exit on a day he was pitching so well was surely frustrating for fantasy managers, but Rasmussen at least turned in a 1.00 ERA and 0.88 WHIP during his two-start week.
Aug 2 2022Rasmussen (6-4) took the loss Tuesday against Toronto, allowing a run on six hits and two walks while striking out three in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen allowed a two-out RBI single in the first inning and then held Toronto scoreless the rest of the way. Since returning from a hamstring injury at the beginning of July, he's allowed two earned runs or fewer in five of his six starts, compiling a 2.38 ERA and 24:9 K:BB while allowing just one long ball in 30.1 innings in that span. His 88.1 innings on the season represent a career high in any professional season.
Jul 28 2022Rasmussen didn't factor in the decision against Baltimore on Wednesday, allowing three runs (two earned) on six hits and a walk while striking out four batters over 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen didn't allow any extra-base hits in the contest, but the Orioles were able to string together baserunners well enough to put up three runs against him. The Rays appear intent on keeping the right-hander relatively fresh, as he's thrown five or more innings only twice over his past six starts despite delivering a respectable 3.45 ERA during that span. Rasmussen isn't going to pick up many wins if that trend continues, but he's pitched well enough this year to deserve a roster spot in deeper fantasy leagues.
Jul 23 2022Rasmussen (6-3) gave up one earned run on seven hits and a walk while striking out four over five innings to earn the win in a 7-3 victory over the Royals on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen looked good in his first start back after the All-Star break, holding the Royals to only one run over five innings of work on 94 pitches. He has been solid since coming back from a hamstring injury at the beginning of July and boasts a 2.29 ERA in four starts this month. The 26-year-old right-hander has excellent spin on his fastball and opponents are hitting .245 on the four-seamer so far this season. Rasmussen tentatively lines up for another favorable matchup at Baltimore next week.
Jul 14 2022Rasmussen did not factor in the decision against Boston on Thursday, pitching six innings and allowing three runs on four hits and one walk while striking out five batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen got through three scoreless frames before Rafael Devers tagged him for a solo home run in the fourth. Rasmussen gave up two more runs in the sixth but was able to complete the inning to notch his third quality start of the campaign. He departed in line for the loss, but a late Rays rally took him off the hook. Rasmussen notched a modest five strikeouts in the outing, but he racked up a more impressive 18 swinging strikes. The right-hander has made six starts since his last win, but he's allowed three or fewer runs in four of those appearances.
Jul 9 2022Rasmussen tossed four scoreless innings against Cincinnati on Saturday, allowing four hits and two walks while striking out six. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was effective in his second start following a recent stint on the IL due to a hamstring injury, but Cincinnati fouled off 24 pitches against him to help drive his pitch count up to 84 over four frames. Consequently, he was unable to go five innings for the second straight start since he returned. Nonetheless, it was a promising outing for the right-hander, and he has now given up just one earned run over 8.2 innings since his activation. Rasmussen hasn't thrown more than 88 pitches in any of his appearances this season, but that's usually enough for him to qualify for a win when he's pitching as effectively as he did Saturday.
Jul 2 2022Rasmussen (hamstring) did not factor into the decision in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Blue Jays, allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits and two walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his return from the injured list, Rasmussen did fairly well to keep the Blue Jays' high-powered offense at bay. However, he issued two walks in the fifth inning and manager Kevin Cash would not let Rasmussen face Bo Bichette a third time. With that, Rasmussen fell short of qualifying for the win, but he should be available to add to his workload gradually in his subsequent starts after throwing 68 pitches (41 strikes) Saturday.
Jun 24 2022Rasmussen (hamstring) will throw a sim game Saturday and could rejoin the Rays' rotation during their upcoming road trip in Toronto, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has been on the injured list since mid-June due to a left hamstring strain, but he's closing in on a return. The team is optimistic that the right-hander will be able to return without a rehab assignment, but he'll presumably be monitored following Saturday's sim game. The Rays haven't yet indicated which day Rasmussen is expected to pitch if he's ultimately cleared to return next weekend.
Jun 15 2022Rasmussen was placed on the 15-day injured list with a left hamstring strain Wednesday, retroactive to June 12, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was listed as the starter for Thursday's game against the Yankees but will be unable to take the mound due to his hamstring injury that will keep him sidelined for at least two weeks. The right-hander was dominant in late April and early May but struggled recently, posting a 5.59 ERA and 1.60 WHIP in 19.1 innings over his last four starts. The Rays haven't yet indicated who will take Rasmussen's place in the rotation, but Ralph Garza should be a candidate to pitch multiple innings Thursday after he was recalled Wednesday.
Jun 11 2022Rasmussen (5-3) took the loss Friday, coughing up seven runs (four earned) on nine hits and two walks over 4.1 innings as the Rays fell 9-4 to the Twins. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Byron Buxton was his biggest nemesis on the night, launching homers off Rasmussen in the first and fifth innings, but the right-hander didn't have much success against the rest of the Minnesota lineup either. Rasmussen has had his two worst performances of the season in his last three trips to the mound, but he'll still carry a 3.41 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 49:16 K:BB through 58 innings into his next start, which is projected to be a road start versus the Yankees next week.
Jun 5 2022Rasmussen did not factor in the decision against the White Sox on Saturday despite pitching seven scoreless innings. He allowed three hits and one walk while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen didn't have his swing-and-miss stuff working in the outing -- he notched only six swinging strikes and just two punchouts -- but he didn't allow any extra-base hits and kept Chicago off the scoreboard for seven frames. He departed with a 2-0 lead, but the Rays' bullpen coughed up three runs in the eighth inning to blow his chance at a win. Rasmussen had his worst start of the campaign in his previous outing, so this was a nice bounce-back effort for him. He'll carry a 3.02 ERA into his next start, which is slated to come at home against St. Louis on Thursday.
May 30 2022Rasmussen (5-2) allowed five runs on five hits and three walks with three strikeouts in three innings, taking the loss Monday versus the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The three walks were a season high, and Rasmussen also allowed two home runs for the first time in his 10 starts this year. It wasn't a sharp outing for the 26-year-old, but he's had few mistakes in 2022, so it's safe to assume this was just a bump in the road. He owns a 3.47 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 44:13 K:BB through 46.2 innings. He'll look to get back on track in a tough home matchup with the White Sox this weekend.
May 26 2022Rasmussen (5-1) allowed three earned runs on six hits and two walks while striking out seven across five innings to earn the win Wednesday against Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen began the outing with three scoreless innings but allowed the first four hitters to reach base in the fourth frame to account for the damage. Rasmussen has yet to allow more than three earned runs in any of his nine starts, though he has recorded more than 15 outs on only two occasions. For the season, he has maintained a 2.68 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 41:10 K:BB across 43.2 frames.
May 18 2022Rasmussen (4-1) allowed four hits and no walks while striking out seven across five scoreless innings to earn the win Wednesday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen allowed two hits in the first inning but proceeded to retire 12 of the last 14 batters he faced. He recorded more than five strikeouts in a start for only the second time this season, which was backed by an impressive 20 swinging strikes across 87 total pitches. Rasmussen has now allowed one or fewer earned runs in each of his last five starts, spanning 26.2 frames. Overall, he's maintained a 2.33 ERA with a 34:8 K:BB across 38.2 innings.
May 14 2022Rasmussen didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 5-2 win over the Blue Jays, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over 5.2 innings while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has only completed six innings once in his seven starts this season, but otherwise Rasmussen has had an outstanding beginning to the season as he continues to draw weak contact out of hitters. Through 33.2 innings, the 26-year-old has posted a 2.67 ERA and 0.92 WHIP with a 27:8 K:BB.
May 8 2022Rasmussen (3-1) allowed one earned run on five hits and two walks while striking out five across five innings to earn the win Saturday against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen primarily relied on groundballs to keep the Mariners' offense in check. His lone blemish came in the fifth frame when he allowed a leadoff triple to Julio Rodriguez, who came around to score on a subsequent single. Rasmussen has suppressed runs effectively for most of the season, but he's importantly worked at least five innings in each of his last three starts and earned a win on each occasion. He's maintained an impressive 2.89 ERA and 0.96 WHIP with a 26:7 K:BB on the campaign.
May 3 2022Rasmussen (2-1) notched the victory against Oakland on Monday, tossing five innings and allowing one run on one hit and one walk while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen induced only six swinging strikes, and the A's wore him down with 22 foul balls. Regardless, he yielded only one hit (a single) and one walk, and stuck around just long enough to pick up his second straight win. The right-hander hasn't given up more than three earned runs in any appearance this year, helping him register a solid 3.13 ERA through five starts. He's tentatively lined up to next take the mound this weekend in Seattle.
Apr 21 2022Rasmussen allowed two earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out four across three innings Wednesday against the Cubs. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was handed a 4-0 lead in the opening frame, but he failed to work efficiently and lost the chance to earn his first win of the campaign. He wasn't hit particularly hard, though multiple hitters reached base in every inning that he worked. Positively, Rasmussen generated four groundball outs and threw a first-pitch strike to 13 of the 16 batters he faced. Rasmussen has a 5.25 ERA and has failed to complete five innings in two of his three starts to begin the season.
Apr 15 2022Rasmussen (0-1) allowed three runs on five hits over five innings Friday, striking out two and taking a loss against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The first run to score on Rasmussen came in the second inning when he fired a wild pitch. He then gave up a solo shot to Jake Burger in the third followed by Burger's RBI single in the fifth. The 26-year-old righty tossed 47 of 68 pitches for strikes, including nine whiffs. Rasmussen will carry a 5.00 ERA into Chicago against the Cubs next week.
Apr 9 2022Rasmussen tossed four innings of two-run ball on three hits and a walk while striking out three in Saturday's win over the Orioles. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All the damage against the right-hander in this one came off of the bat of Ryan Mountcastle, who launched a first-pitch slider over the wall for a two-run shot in the third inning. Rasmussen failed to pitch five innings in the contest, leaving after the fourth inning at 64 pitches. It was a strong season debut for the 26-year-old who produced a 4-1 record with a 2.84 ERA and 1.08 WHIP over 35 appearances and 10 starts between the Brewers and Rays.
Apr 3 2022Rasmussen gave up one run over 3.1 innings with six strikeouts and no walks in Sunday's spring training win over Pittsburgh. He has added a new pitch, a sweeping slider, this spring. "It's pretty unique, the action on it, so we're hoping that really plays for him," Rays manager Kevin Cash told the Tampa Bay Times. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen looks set for the regular season and is expected to make his first start April 10 against Baltimore. Rasmussen excelled when he moved into the starting rotation late last season with Tampa Bay, holding hitters to a .171 average as a starter (.239 as a reliever) and posting a 4.5 BB% starting (11.8% relieving).
Oct 10 2021Rasmussen allowed three runs on six hits and no walks while striking out one in two innings during Sunday's loss to the Red Sox in Game 3 of the ALDS. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen got early run support from the Rays, as the team scored two runs in the top of the first inning. However, the right-hander was unable to preserve the lead across the next two frames, which resulted in his shortest appearance since Aug. 1. Rasmussen wasn't charged with the loss since Tampa Bay tied the game in the top of the eighth. The Rays need to win back-to-back games to advance in the postseason, but the 26-year-old seems unlikely to pitch again in the ALDS.
Oct 9 2021Rasmussen will start Game 3 of the ALDS against the Red Sox on Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Heading into the postseason, the Rays were undecided whether Rasmussen would be used as a starter or as a reliever, but he'll take the mound to begin Game 3 after he didn't appear out of the bullpen in either of the first two contests. The right-hander lasted five innings in each of his final four regular-season appearances, and he posted a 1.35 ERA and 0.75 WHIP in 20 innings during that time.
Oct 5 2021Rasmussen is the top candidate to start Game 3 of the ALDS against the Red Sox or Yankees but could be used in relief in one of the first two games, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has pitched in both roles this season, starting 10 games while appearing out of the bullpen in 15 more. He owns an excellent 1.93 ERA as a starter compared to a 3.97 mark in relief, but that doesn't entirely line up with his underlying numbers, as he's struck out just 18.2 percent of opposing batters in a starting role compared to 29.4 percent as a reliever. The Rays famously care as little as any team about traditional pitcher roles, so Rasmussen will likely handle multiple innings at a time in some capacity, but exactly when those innings will come is tough to predict.
Sep 30 2021Rasmussen (4-1) earned the win over Houston on Wednesday, hurling five scoreless innings during which he allowed one hit and no walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In perhaps the most impressive outing of his young career, Rasmussen held the Astros without a baserunner for 4.1 frames before Yuli Gurriel broke through with a single. Rasmussen completed the inning without surrendering any damage on the scoreboard, allowing him to notch his third win in his past four starts. Each of those victories has come in five-inning efforts, and the Rays were unwilling to let the right-hander go any deeper Wednesday despite his dominance and the fact that he threw only 54 pitches. The 26-year-old may have worked his way into Tampa Bay's playoff rotation with his strong campaign. He finishes 2021 with a 2.84 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 73:25 K:BB across 76 innings.
Sep 21 2021Rasmussen pitched five innings, allowing two runs on four hits and a walk while striking out three in Tuesday's loss to the Blue Jays. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old commanded the strike zone in this one with 52 of his 70 pitches being strikes. The only major blow against him was a solo home run by Lourdes Gurriel in the fifth inning. Since joining the pitching rotation Aug. 12, Rasmussen has posted a fantastic 1.69 ERA and 0.84 WHIP over 32 innings. He's projected to start next against the Astros on Wednesday.
Sep 14 2021Rasmussen (3-1) earned the win Tuesday after pitching five scoreless innings against the Blue Jays. He surrendered two hits, walked one and struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was able to limit the damage to just three baserunners, none of which passed second base. He only threw 52 pitches in the contest as the team continues to limit his innings. Rasmussen has posted a 1.33 ERA and 0.67 WHIP in six starts since Aug. 12. He may not make another start this week with Dietrich Enns expected to take the ball against Detroit and Shane McClanahan (back) possibly returning after the 10-day minimum.
Sep 7 2021Rasmussen (2-1) allowed a run on six hits and struck out two in five innings, earning the win Tuesday over Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only run the right-hander gave up came on a second-inning groundout. Rasmussen still isn't pitching very deep into games, but he hasn't allowed more than one run in any appearance since July 5. He owns a 3.25 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 65:23 K:BB across 61 innings between Tampa Bay and Milwaukee this year. The 26-year-old will look to keep up the strong pitching next week in Toronto.
Sep 1 2021Rasmussen pitched four innings in Wednesday's loss to the Red Sox, allowing one run on three hits and no walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old held his own in this one with the only blemish coming as a result of a second inning RBI single by Christian Vazquez. Since being moved from the bullpen to the starting rotation on August 12, Rasmussen has posted a strong 1.59 ERA and 0.76 WHIP over 17 innings. His next expected start is projected to be Tuesday against the Red Sox in Boston.
Aug 25 2021Rasmussen took a no-decision in Tuesday's 3-1 win over the Phillies after allowing one run on four hits and one walk while striking out one over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The five-inning outing represented a new career high for Rasmussen, who is slowly ramping up his pitch count after moving from the bullpen to the rotation Aug. 12. In his first three starts with the Rays, Rasmussen has allowed only two runs in 13 innings, but a 5.5 K/9 and zero wins during that stretch have somewhat muted his overall fantasy impact.
Aug 18 2021Manager Kevin Cash suggested after Tuesday's 10-0 win over the Orioles that Rasmussen will remain in the Tampa Bay rotation for at least one more turn, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports. "We'll continue to explore [Rasmussen starting] and just see where it takes us. As long as his bounce-back is good and he's feeling good, kind of why wouldn't we? He's just got a lot of power, and he's got a pretty good three-pitch, four-pitch mix." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen technically made his fourth start of the season Tuesday, but since he was used as more of an opener in the first two outings, he's only made two proper turns through the rotation. Because he had been working in relief prior to moving into the rotation last week, Rasmussen has been capped at four innings in his two turns and has been exceptional both times. In Tuesday's win, he held the Orioles scoreless while striking out three and allowing one hit and one walk. Though Chris Archer (forearm) should be back from the 60-day injured list early next week and could slot into the rotation, he's more likely to replace the struggling Michael Wacha or inconsistent Josh Fleming than Rasmussen.
Aug 15 2021Rasmussen is listed as the Rays' probable starter for Tuesday's game against the Orioles, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After striking out four over four innings of one-run ball while starting Thursday in Boston following Ryan Yarbrough's placement on the COVID-19 injured list, Rasmussen will pick up another turn through the rotation while Yarbrough remains on the shelf. Even if Yarbrough makes it back from the IL for next weekend's series with the White Sox, Rasmussen could retain a spot in the rotation if he performs well versus the Orioles, given the extent to which back-end starters Josh Fleming and Michael Wacha have struggled of late. Rasmussen could be cleared to throw around 60-to-75 pitches Tuesday after he was pulled after 50 pitches in last week's start.
Aug 12 2021Rasmussen allowed one earned run on one hit and two walks while striking out four across four innings in the win over the Red Sox on Thursday. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen served as the opener, but was able to get through four innings. He allowed just one run on a Rafael Devers double in the fourth inning. The 25-year-old has given up a run over each of his last three appearances. Since joining the Rays, he has a 3.81 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with 29 strikeouts over 26 innings.
Aug 10 2021Rasmussen will open Thursday's game against the Red Sox, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Ryan Yarbrough (undisclosed) landing on the COVID-19 injured list Thursday, Josh Fleming's outing is expected to be moved up to Wednesday. That leaves Rasmussen to take the ball for Thursday's series finale. The right-hander hasn't pitched more than three innings this season, though he's worked multiple frames in each of his last seven outings. With that in mind, the Rays will likely try to get him through the third inning Thursday, but the 26-year-old is almost certain to not qualify for the win.
Aug 7 2021Rasmussen (1-1) earned the win Friday against the Orioles after allowing one run on five hits and a walk across 2.1 innings, striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen allowed contact all game long but still limited the damage to just one run, and that was enough to hand him his first win of the campaign. The right-hander has given up runs in four of his last six outings, though, and he owns a 4.41 ERA -- as well as a 1.41 WHIP -- in eight appearances since the beginning of July.
Jul 25 2021Rasmussen didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 8-2 win over Cleveland, allowing one run on one hit over three innings. He struck out three without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Making his second career big-league start, Rasmussen was very efficient over 35 pitches (25 strikes) and made only one mistake, which Bobby Bradley deposited in the seats for a solo shot. The right-hander has worked multiple innings in five of his last six appearances, and while his 4.60 ERA in 15.2 frames since coming over from the Brewers in the Willy Adames trade isn't impressive, Rasmussen's 1.09 WHIP and 20:4 K:BB suggests he can be useful in a swing role for the Rays.
Jul 23 2021Rasmussen will start Saturday's bullpen game against Cleveland, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has pitched two innings in each of his last three appearances, and he's posted a 1.50 ERA and 0.83 WHIP in six innings during that time. He'll begin the contest on the mound as the Rays plan to utilize a bullpen game in Cleveland on Saturday.
Jul 20 2021Rasmussen fired two scoreless innings in a loss to the Orioles on Monday, allowing a walk and recording two strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander has now worked three straight two-inning assignments, and he's logged that workload in four of his last five trips to the mound overall. Rasmussen is building back some trust after stumbles in consecutive outings June 30 and July 5, as he's bounced back to allow just a single earned run with a 7:1 K:BB over six innings in his last three appearances.
Jul 12 2021Rasmussen fired two scoreless innings during which he allowed a hit and recorded two strikeouts in a loss to the Blue Jays on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The young right-hander had allowed six earned runs on seven hits and a walk over three innings in his previous two appearances, so Sunday's multi-inning blanking was certainly a welcome sight. Rasmussen had also generated scoreless efforts in each of his first three appearances for the Rays prior to the pair of stumbles and brings high-quality swing-and-miss stuff, so there's reason for optimism he can be an asset in Tampa's bullpen during the second half of the season.
Jun 30 2021Rasmussen allowed two runs on two hits and a walk while throwing two innings as the opener during Wednesday's loss to the Nationals. He struck out two and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was handed a 2-0 lead before even taking the mound, but he allowed two singles and a walk as the Nationals tied the game in the bottom of the first. He settled down to retire Washington in order in the second before exiting. The right-hander has allowed just those two runs across 6.2 innings with the Rays and he should continue to serve in multiple roles going forward.
Jun 24 2021The Rays recalled Rasmussen from Triple-A Durham on Thursday, Adam Berry of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he was optioned to Triple-A on Sunday, Rasmussen is eligible to rejoin the big club early since the Rays placed a player on the injured list (shortstop Taylor Walls) in a corresponding move. Rasmussen, who was acquired from the Brewers in May in the trade that sent Willy Adames to Milwaukee, was impressive in his Rays debut June 19, striking out four Mariners over 1.2 perfect innings in relief.
Jun 20 2021Rasmussen was optioned to Triple-A Durham on Sunday, Steve Carney of Sports Radio 620 WDAE reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was called up by the Rays on Saturday, and he struck out four in 1.2 perfect innings in Saturday's matchup against Seattle. He'll now head back to the minors as part of a transaction that's expected to make room for shortstop Wander Franco on the active roster.
Jun 19 2021Rasmussen was recalled from Triple-A Durham on Saturday, Neil Solondz of the Rays Radio Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen made eight appearances (one start) with Triple-A Durham this year and posted a 0.63 WHIP and 23:2 K:BB in 11.1 scoreless innings. He was traded from the Brewers to the Rays in mid-May and will now be in line to make his team debut out of the bullpen.
May 21 2021Rasmussen and J.P. Feyereisen were traded from the Brewers to the Rays on Friday in exchange for Willy Adames and Trevor Richards, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old righty owns a career 5.01 ERA in 32.1 major-league innings, but he's more interesting than that number suggests. His 4.28 FIP and 3.61 xFIP indicate that his 31.1 percent strikeout rate should be enough to offset his 14.2 percent walk rate going forward. There's potential for high-leverage opportunities in Rasmussen's future if he can trim the walks, but he'll head to Triple-A Durham for now.
May 9 2021Rasmussen pitched a scoreless 10th inning with one walk and one strikeout for the save in Sunday's 2-1 extra-inning win over Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Devin Williams and Josh Hader were deployed in the eighth and ninth innings, respectively. Rasmussen was the next man up for Milwaukee, and he did well to protect a one-run lead in the bottom of the 10th. The right-hander has had a rough start to 2021 with a 4.91 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 20:9 K:BB across 14.2 innings -- as such, high-leverage opportunities likely won't be frequent.
Apr 8 2021Rasmussen (0-1) allowed two earned runs on one hit and one walk in one inning of relief to take the loss against the Cardinals on Thursday. He recorded three strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen has struggled in both of his relief appearances to start the year, allowing five earned runs in two innings. A positive takeaway is all three of his outs came via strikeout, however, not until after Nolan Arenado hit a two-run home run to give the Cardinals the lead. Rasmussen had a solid spring, but he could receive a demotion if his numbers do not improve.
Mar 30 2021Rasmussen was informed Monday that he has secured a spot on the Brewers' Opening Day roster, Adam McCalvy of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was expected that Rasmussen would break camp with the big club for the first time, and he sewed up a spot by posting a 2.89 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 11:5 K:BB over his first 9.1 innings of the spring. Rasmussen threw more than an inning more often than not this spring, so he will likely open in some type of multi-inning role in the middle of the Brewers' bullpen. However, he has some of the best arm talent among the bunch, and he could eventually wind up in the spot directly in front of the talented back-end duo of Josh Hader and Devin Williams.
Mar 4 2021Rasmussen is being stretched out to handle a multi-inning role, Will Sammon of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen opened Wednesday's game and was the first Brewers pitcher to throw more than an inning this spring. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed after the game that he's being built up to cover two to three innings in relief, similar to the role Brent Suter filled last year. While that means Rasmussen will likely be ticketed to pitch in the middle frames, it does give his fantasy value a slight boost, as it will give him the opportunity to rack up more than one or two strikeouts per outing. Rasmussen averaged 12.3 K/9 in his 2020 rookie season, so he could provide some help in the strikeout department if he gets the innings.
Sep 18 2020Rasmussen (1-0) allowed a hit and a walk in a scoreless inning and struck out two to earn the win Friday versus the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen worked the fifth inning right after the Brewers took a 6-4 lead in the bottom of the fourth. The solid performance gave Rasmussen his first career major-league win. He has a 2.13 ERA, 1.42 WHIP and 14 strikeouts in 12.2 innings across nine appearances in a low-leverage role.
Sep 15 2020Rasmussen threw two scoreless innings of relief in the Brewers' loss to the Cardinals in Game 2 of Monday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers used their top relievers in the first game of Monday's twin bill, which gave Rasmussen the chance to pitch in a key spot in the nightcap. He got the job done, keeping the Cardinals off the scoreboard despite entering the game with runners on first and third and no outs. Rasmussen allowed just one runner to cross home plate over his last 8.1 innings, and on the heels of Tuesday's performance he could find himself working in higher-stress situations more often.
Aug 29 2020Rasmussen threw two scoreless innings and finished Friday's 9-1 victory over the Pirates. He did not allow a hit, struck out two and walked one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen was tagged for two earned runs over 1.1 innings in an Aug. 22 loss to the Pirates, but he has sandwiched scoreless two-inning outings around that since earning his first trip to the big leagues. The Brewers have used Rasmussen only in mop-up duty thus far, but he is finding his footing in the bullpen and bringing the heat, averaging 97.9 mph on his fastball -- a mark that ranks in the top 10 in the league.
Aug 20 2020Rasmussen made his big-league debut Wednesday against the Twins and struck out three batters over two innings of relief. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen's fastball is his calling card, and he wasted no time showing it off, striking out the first batter he faced -- Miguel Sano -- on a 99-mph heater and averaging over 98 mph with his four-seamer over his two frames. Rasmussen started in the minors last year but has undergone Tommy John surgery twice, so he figures to work solely in relief in 2020, and could remain there next year and beyond. Even if he does, though, he has the arm talent to be a factor in fantasy leagues at some point.
Aug 13 2020Rasmussen's contract was selected by the Brewers on Thursday, Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Rasmussen made a strong case to make the major-league roster during spring training and summer camp. He was left off the Opening Day roster, but he'll get ready to make his major-league debut as part of the Brewers' pitching staff. The right-hander posted a 3.15 ERA and 96:31 K:BB over 74.1 innings in the minors last season. Despite his solid results in the minor leagues, Rasmussen has never pitched above Double-A and could experience some growing pains against higher-level competition. Rasmussen served mainly as a starter in the minors and could take Eric Lauer's place in the rotation after he was optioned to the alternate training site Thursday.
Jul 19 2020Rasmussen is expected to begin the season at the Brewers' alternate training site, but he could still make his MLB debut this season, Tom Haudricourt of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As Haudricourt notes, the hard-throwing righty still needs development. He has never pitched above Double-A and had an 11.4 percent walk rate at that level last year. Rasmussen's upper-90s fastball could earn him low-leverage chances as the Brewers cycle in fresh relievers this season.
Jun 29 2020Rasmussen will attend Summer Camp with the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Brewers optioned Rasmussen to the minors in early March, but he will get another shot to make the cut. Rasmussen's season will likely begin at the Brewers' alternate training site, but his inclusion among the team's initial 45-man roster suggests he could make his major-league debut in 2020 even if he does not break camp with the big club.
Jun 6 2018The Brewers selected Rasmussen (elbow) on Tuesday with the 185th overall pick in the 2018 first-year player draft.Taken by the Rays with the 31st overall pick in 2017, Rasmussen went unsigned when Tampa Bay red flagged his medical reports. The right-hander returned to Oregon State for his senior season, only to prove the Rays' concerns valid after requiring Tommy John surgery last September, the second time in college that he required the procedure. The track record for pitchers returning from two Tommy John surgeries isn't promising, but the Brewers felt that the 22-year-old made for a worthy gamble in the sixth round, given the limited financial investment at stake. Rasmussen should be ready to face hitters by next spring and could be developed as a reliever if the Brewers prefer to accelerate his move through the system.