Rays to sign ex-Red Sox, Mets pitcher for 12th MLB season

The Tampa Bay Rays did not make the postseason in 2025 after a rather weird season. They did not play in their home ballpark, for instance. And the team simply never looked the part of a playoff contender. However, they are returning to Tropicana Field for the 2026 season. When this happens, they’ll be bringing a new veteran pitcher along with them.

The Rays are closing in on a contract with free-agent left-handed pitcher Steven Matz, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. Matz remains in the AL East following a trade to the Boston Red Sox during the season. The deal is believed to be a two-year pact, and is pending a physical, according to Topkin.

Matz split this past season between the Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals. The veteran southpaw hurler began the year with St. Louis, pitching to a 3.44 ERA across 32 appearances. He was dealt to Boston around the MLB Trade Deadline as the Red Sox chased down a Wild Card spot.

This is a developing story. More to come.

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