Rays Place Closer Manuel Rodriguez on 15-Day IL with Forearm Strain

The Tampa Bay Rays have placed right-hander Manuel Rodriguez on the 15-day injured list due to a strained right forearm, with the move retroactive to June 10. Rodriguez, 28, has been a key bullpen figure this season, leading the team with 31 appearances and posting a 2.08 ERA alongside 25 strikeouts in 30⅓ innings. The Rays recalled right-hander Cole Sulser from Triple-A Durham to fill Rodriguez's spot on the roster; Sulser has a 3.09 ERA in 10 appearances this season. Rodriguez last pitched on June 9 against the Boston Red Sox, allowing two hits and a walk in one inning. It remains uncertain whether Rodriguez will return immediately after becoming eligible on June 25 or require additional recovery time. The Rays may rely on other bullpen arms like Edwin Uceta and Kevin Kelly to share late-inning duties during Rodriguez's absence.