In a surprising move, the Tampa Bay Rays have released left-handed reliever Jake Brentz, who was in camp as a non-roster invitee. Brentz had signed a minor league deal in December. However, he struggled significantly during spring training, leading to his release.
This decision marks a continuation of Brentz’s recent struggles with control, which have plagued him since his return from UCL surgery in 2022. The Rays had hoped he could regain his form, but his performance this spring indicated otherwise.
The Struggles of Jake Brentz
Jake Brentz’s journey over the past couple of years has been tumultuous, to say the least. After an impressive rookie season in 2021 with the Kansas City Royals, Brentz’s career has been on a downward trajectory. His control issues have become increasingly problematic, significantly impacting his performance on the mound.
Spring Training Woes
During this spring training, Brentz pitched in six games, allowing four runs (three earned) across 4 1/3 innings. His control issues were glaring, as he walked seven batters and threw a couple of wild pitches.
These struggles were a continuation of his control problems from last season, where he walked an astounding 29.2% of opposing hitters in 30 innings with the Royals’ top two affiliates.
Post-Surgery Struggles
Brentz underwent UCL surgery in June 2022, a procedure that often requires a lengthy and challenging rehabilitation process. He managed only three minor league appearances late in 2023, and it appears that he has struggled to rediscover his mechanics post-surgery.
This is not uncommon for pitchers coming off such a significant injury, as the extended rehab can disrupt their rhythm and control.
Career Highlights and Setbacks
Despite his recent struggles, Brentz has shown flashes of potential throughout his career. His rookie season in 2021 with the Royals was particularly impressive, where he posted a 3.66 earned run average across 64 innings.
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He struck out 27.3% of batters faced while averaging 97 MPH on his fastball. Even with a high walk rate of 13.3%, he managed to record 15 holds and two saves, indicating his potential as a setup man.
Impressive Rookie Season
In 2021, Brentz emerged as a key bullpen piece for the Royals. His ability to strike out batters at a high rate and maintain a solid ERA made him a valuable asset. His fastball velocity was particularly noteworthy, as it consistently reached 97 MPH, making him a formidable presence on the mound.
Control Issues and Decline
However, Brentz’s control issues have been a persistent problem throughout his career. Even during his successful rookie season, his walk rate was relatively high.
These issues have only worsened over the past year, culminating in his struggles during spring training with the Rays. His inability to find the strike zone consistently has made it difficult for him to maintain his effectiveness as a reliever.
Future Prospects for Brentz
Despite being released by the Rays, Brentz’s career is far from over. There is still potential for him to regain his form and become a valuable asset to another team.
His impressive rookie season and high strikeout rate indicate that he has the tools to succeed if he can address his control issues.
Potential for a Minor League Deal
Given his past success and the potential he has shown, it is likely that another team will offer Brentz a minor league deal. This would give him the opportunity to work on his mechanics and command in a less pressured environment.
A stint in Triple-A could be just what he needs to regain his confidence and control.
Working Through Control Issues
Addressing his control issues will be crucial for Brentz’s future success. This may involve working with pitching coaches to adjust his mechanics or making mental adjustments to improve his focus and consistency on the mound.
Whatever the approach, it is clear that finding a way to reduce his walk rate will be key to his resurgence.
The Rays’ Decision
The Rays’ decision to release Brentz was undoubtedly a difficult one, but it was ultimately based on his performance during spring training.
The team had hoped he could overcome his control issues and contribute to their bullpen, but his struggles made it clear that he was not ready for that role.
Spring Training Performance
Brentz’s performance during spring training was a major factor in the Rays’ decision. His inability to find the strike zone consistently and the high number of walks he issued made it clear that he was not ready to contribute at the major league level. The Rays could not afford to have a reliever with such significant control issues in their bullpen.
Looking Ahead
While the decision to release Brentz was disappointing, it opens the door for other pitchers to step up and earn a spot in the Rays’ bullpen.
The team will be looking for relievers who can consistently throw strikes and maintain control on the mound. This focus on control and consistency will be crucial as the Rays look to build a strong and reliable bullpen for the upcoming season.
For more details on Jake Brentz’s release and his career, you can read the full article on MLB Trade Rumors.
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