Talk about the Tampa Bay Rays pitching staff generally devolves into a debate about the use of the Opener. The emphasis on their innovation obscures the fact that their pitchers have a lot of talent.
When trying to compare stats with Rays pitchers by splitting them into starters and relievers it isn’t so clear cut. However the goal is what should be the same as it should be for most teams. Getting the best results out of your 12 to 13 roster spots.
By any measure of results the Rays have put together the a staff that looks like one of (if not) the best in Major League Baseball.