If the Rays are known for anything it may be the development of the “bulk guy” — the pitcher who can get 1 to 2 times through an order.
This year, they brought in Chris Devenski on a 1-year deal, and they also signed Tyler Alexander who last pitched with the Tigers. Both of these guys will be responsible for filling in the roles that Josh Fleming and Yonny Chirinos played last year. The Alexander move was a head-scratcher for some people, but the Rays are following a formula that has helped them in the past. When the Rays have converted relievers to bulk guys or even starters — think Jeffry Springs, Drew Rasmussen, and Zach Littell — they have tended to be pitchers with great pitch location talents.