Jul 8, 2022; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Tampa Bay Rays relief pitcher Matt Wisler (37) reacts being called for a balk that led to giving up the winning run to the Cincinnati Reds in the tenth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Rays: What does Matt Wisler have to do to secure a job?
It is a familiar situation for Matt Wisler with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Wisler had pitched well out of the Rays’ bullpen this season, something that had typically been the case over the past few seasons. And once again, he was cut loose, this time designated for assignment as the Rays brought Luis Patino back to the majors for Monday’s outing.
Tampa Bay Rays latest to let Matt Wisler walk
Wisler had been a solid part of the Rays’ bullpen this season, serving in any role from an opener to closing out games. He had put together a 2.25 ERA and a 1.000 WHiP over his 44 innings, striking out 35 batters with ten walks. Although his strikeout rate was down, and he had dramatically outperformed his 4.25 FIP, Wisler was still an important part of the Rays’ relief corps.
The same sort of scenario happened to Wisler in 2020. He had posted a stellar 1.07 ERA and a 1.145 WHiP in his 25.1 innings in the pandemic shortened season, striking out 35 batters with 14 walks. However, the Twins had decided not to tender him a contract after the season, making him a free agent.
Once again, Wisler is in a similar situation. While he could find a new home for the rest of the season, he would not be eligible for the postseason. Any stop would likely be temporary anyway as he is slated to enter free agency after the season concludes. This move to designate him for assignment, should he reject being sent to Durham, would simply allow him to enter the market earlier.
Perhaps his luck will change this time around in free agency. Maybe he will be able to find a team that is willing to keep him on the roster, an organization that will find value in his generally solid performance as a reliever. Wisler has to hope that will be the case.
Matt Wisler finds himself in a familiar situation. Despite pitching relatively well, the Tampa Bay Rays have designated him for assignment.
