Rays' Shane McClanahan Starts Season on Injured List Due to Triceps Issue

Tampa Bay Rays ace Shane McClanahan will begin the season on the injured list due to nerve irritation in his left triceps, a setback that emerged during his final Grapefruit League start. Despite the injury, manager Kevin Cash expressed relief, noting that McClanahan avoided a major issue, although a specific return timeline remains undetermined. McClanahan, who has undergone two Tommy John surgeries, most recently in August 2023, will miss the Opening Day start, with Ryan Pepiot stepping in. The left-hander showed promising form in spring training with seven scoreless innings, striking out eight. As McClanahan recovers, the Rays aim to carefully manage his condition, essential for their postseason ambitions after missing last season's playoffs. Imaging and further evaluations are expected to provide more clarity on his recovery timeline.